Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone is set to miss up to three months of action after tearing ligaments in his elbow during training. 

The 28-year-old may require an operation to get himself back fit as soon as possible. 

Injury hit squad

David Moyes has endured a tough start to his life on Wearside and his injury-hit squad are still looking for their first win in the league this season. The loss of Mannone will now make it even harder for Sunderland to turn around their poor start to the campaign.

Youngster Jordan Pickford will start in goal against Southampton this weekend, due to Moyes having no senior goalkeepers available. The 22-year-old played in the 1-0 win against Shrewsbury during the week and has made a handful of first team appearances over the past year.

Pickford will start this weekend against Southampton. Photo credit: Daily Mail
Pickford will start this weekend against Southampton. Photo credit: Daily Mail

Moyes will look sign a replacement

Moyes was open when asked by journalists whether Pickford was up to the task of filling in for Mannone. The Scot praised the youngster and said he had "no qualms" about starting him. He also revealed Pickford "could have been the one" who started in goal for the Black Cats at the start of the season.

However, due to the lack of depth in that area of the pitch, it is no surprise to hear Moyes announce his desire to sign another goalkeeper before the transfer window closes. The 53-year-old said because Sunderland only have "a young keeper" after Pickford, they will be searching for a new signing in between the sticks. 

Iborra bid confirmed

As well as speaking about Mannone's injury, Moyes took the time in his pre-match press conference to announce that Sunderland have made an offer for Sevilla midfielder Vicente Iborra

The 28-year-old is said to be torn over his future but some eager fans have already taken to his wikipedia page to announce him as a Sunderland player. The move would surely be welcomed by fans of the club, as Moyes' squad is looking bare at the moment.

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