Sunderland boss Paolo di Canio has played down Wes Brown's absence from their friendly win at FC Midtjylland.
Di Canio hopes to have him fit enough to play an "important role" when the campaign kicks off.
"He had a little problem and we decided not to risk him today," Di Canio revealed.
"He has had a very good pre-season which was a surprise for everyone, even him.
"We didn't want to risk him because he's an important player now.
"On Wednesday he was running again and on Thursday he can train harder because I want him to be available as soon as possible."
