Sunderland boss rules out key defender for Millwall clash

Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris has ruled key defender Dennis Cirkin out of Saturday’s clash against Millwall with a hamstring injury.

Left-back Cirkin has made 34 appearances and picked up five Championship goal contributions.

The 22-year-old was brought off after 69 minutes in their 3-0 defeat at Coventry before the international break.

“Probably two or three more weeks,” Le Bris said when asked about the defender’s injury.

“The season was like that, with many injuries and opportunities for other players. So we have to manage a situation like that.”

The Lions head to the Stadium Of Light six points off the play-offs.

Sunderland are fourth but have only picked up two wins in their last five games.

“We have to respect Millwall,” said Le Bris.

“They’re really well organised and strong out of possession.

“They’re good at exploiting space when they recover the ball.

“It will be a tough game. The main focus is on us, but we will take into account different elements of the opponent.

“We have to play our best football. It wasn’t the case at Coventry. That is our main focus.”