Sunderland midfielder Malbranque gets all-clear

Sunderland midfielder Steed Malbranque has been given the all-clear.

Malbranque was released from hospital following the 1-1 draw at Portsmouth on Tuesday night.

Malbranque picked up a chest problem in the first half of the Barclays Premier League contest at Fratton Park and was sent for precautionary tests.

However, the Belgium-born former France Under-21 international was later cleared to fly back to the north east with his team-mates.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Sunderland midfielder Steed Malbranque has been given the all-clear after picking up a nasty knock against Portsmouth.

"The 30-year-old was substituted just before the break with a chest injury and was sent to hospital as a precaution.

"But the Belgian winger was discharged after tests and was able to rejoin his team-mates at the airport for the plane ride back to the north east.

"He will be monitored by the club's medical team and has just under two weeks to recover ahead of the game at Arsenal later this month."