Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has revealed that midfielder Lee Cattermole is facing a fitness battle to play against Liverpool at the Stadium of Light.
The 26-year-old missed his side's defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League and also their win over Leeds United in the FA Cup with a groin injury.
Liam Bridcutt is on standby to start against the Reds in Cattermole's absence, but fellow midfielder Jack Rodwell has been ruled out of the game.
When asked about Cattermole's fitness, Poyet told the club's official website: "Touch and go. We have two or three players who are nearly there but the one for sure who is out is Jack Rodwell, but he will start training again on Monday if everything is alright.
"There are a few decisions to make with the rest, but we're taking 19 or 20 to the game tomorrow and we will make the final decision then. Liam has been good so he will probably be playing."
Sunderland face off against Liverpool later today.
Simon Sinclair
