Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg is expected to be available for Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie against Stoke City after recovering from an ankle injury.
The 17-year-old left Ewood Park in a protective boot on Boxing Day after picking up an injury in the second half of their game against Blackburn.
Also fit is Lens loanee Salis Abdul Samed, who could make his first appearance, while 20-year-old forward Ahmed Abdullahi could also feature after signing for the Wearside club in August.
The Black Cats will also soon been bolstered by the return of defender Dan Ballard - who boss Regis Le Bris estimates is around one week away from a return - but wingers Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson are still anticipated to be out for a further three to four weeks.