Sunderland have been dealt a blow with news that experienced defender Wes Brown could miss the weekend's Tyne-Wear derby against local rivals Newcastle United.

Brown was forced off in Dick Advocaat's first game in charge, the 1-0 defeat at West Ham United, after falling awkwardly and is in doubt for the home meeting with the Magpies on Sunday.

Santiago Vergini is set to fill in alongside John O'Shea in central defence against Newcastle at the Stadium of Light.

Advocaat faces an uphill battle to steer his team to safety as his side sit 17th position in the league, one point clear of the relegation zone.