Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris has confirmed star striker Brian Brobbey has avoided serious injury, although he wont be available for Saturdays game with Brighton. Brobbeys final act before the international break was to score a hat-trick in the Wearsiders 5-3 defeat at Manchester City. He then went away with the Netherlands but broke down clutching his hamstring 35 minutes into their opening game against Germany.The former Ajax man appeared destined for a lengthy spell on the sidelines but Le Bris expects him, and Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra who is also absent with a hamstring problem, to return soon.The Frenchman said: Brian and Habib are on a similar schedule and will be available soon. Habib is really close. Hes in a good place. Almost every session is done for the full recovery. So, in around one week hell be fully available.With Brian, its going to be short term [as well]. Its really positive, we were a bit worried when we saw the video but Brian, just after the game, wasnt too worried because he experienced different injuries in the past. He was adamant that it wasnt too serious and its the case. We wont take too many risks, but it wont be too long.Ballard blow for SunderlandThere was less positive news on Dan Ballard. The Northern Ireland centre-half also sustained a problem during the international break and is set to miss a significant chunk of Sunderlands busy upcoming schedule that includes games in the Premier League, EFL Cup and Europa League.Its a shame for Ballard because he was in a good place and will be sidelined for a few weeks, said Le Bris. Its a medium-term injury.Sunderland head into the weekend clash with Brighton in 14th place in the Premier League table.The Seagulls are third after resounding wins over Coventry (5-0) and Arsenal (3-0).They have had a good start to the season with a young, dynamic squad, said Le Bris. It will be a challenge, but we know our strengths. Topics Brian Brobbey Netherlands National Football Team Sunderland A.F.C. If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Premier League Predictions: Arsenal and Chelsea get back on track, Man United frustrated while City survive Liverpool storm Jon Fisher 8th October, 2026 The Premier League returns: The five storylines to follow including Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea Jon Fisher 8th October, 2026 Nations League: Wales lose again as Netherlands go top of group Cian Cheesbrough 4th October, 2026 Nations League: Netherlands fight back to draw while Parrott stars for Ireland Tom Rostance 1st October, 2026 Greece v Netherlands: Preview, expected line-ups, stats and where to watch Nicholas McGee 1st October, 2026 Nations League: Germany suffer shock defeat to Greece as Klopp makes winless start, Netherlands see off Serbia Cian Cheesbrough 27th September, 2026
