When it was revealed that Elliot Embleton had suffered a broken ankle and ligament damage in Sunderland's 1-1 draw with Hull City last weekend, many fans may have been worried that he wouldn't be seen again this season.

However, a recent report from Football Insider has claimed that the 23-year-old could still be seen again this season as he is set to undergo surgery on Friday, and could return after between nine and 12 weeks on the sidelines.

The former Blackpool loanee is one of just three Sunderland players who have featured in all 23 of their league fixtures so far this campaign, which emphasises how important he has become under Tony Mowbray and the 59-year-old will surely be delighted if he can return before the season is over.

In those 23 appearances, the young midfielder has contributed two goals and two assists, while he also memorably scored the opening goal for the Black Cats in their 2-0 win over Wycombe Wanderers in the League One playoff final.

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He also played a key role in the normal season, notching eight goals and six assists in 38 games and at just 23, there seems no reason why he can't be a mainstay in the Mackems' midfield for many years to come.

Lee Cattermole spoke highly about the 23-year-old's potential back in 2020 when he featured on the SAFC Unfiltered podcast.

He said:

“He’s technically one of the best players I’ve seen. A good mark of knowing someone’s technically good is he can take corners with both feet.

“He’s someone who sees that pass that other players don’t. He’s a nightmare to play against in training because he can go either way, shoot off both feet.”

Embleton, who earns £6k-per-week at the Stadium of Light, will undoubtedly be working as hard as possible after his surgery to ensure that he can still play a part for the Black Cats towards the end of the season, which could prove crucial in their hopes of achieving a playoff spot once again.

With Sunderland arguably low on central midfield options, with the inexperienced trio of Edouard Michut, Abdoullah Ba and Jay Matete likely replacements for Embleton, Mowbray will be hoping that his surgery is a big success and he can get back on the pitch as soon as is safely possible.