Sunderland loanee John Mensah's permanent future at the club is in doubt after he tore a groin muscle on the weekend.
The Lyon defender had to be replaced after just 10 minutes of Saturday's clash with West Bromwich Albion and it has been confirmed that he has sustained a grade two adductor tear which is likely to keep him out for up to a month.
The 28-year old was a chance to sign a permanent deal with the Black Cats after spending the past two seasons on loan at the Stadium of Light but this fresh injury concern has cast a shadow over his time with the English club.
Steve Bruce has already dealt with a massive number of long-term injuries this season so may not want to take the risk that Mensah provides with his injury-prone ways.
