Fletcher Fit To Face Foxes

Scottish centre-forward Steven Fletcher is fit and available for Saturday's trip to Leicester City having shaken off the ankle knock he picked up while on international duty.

The 27-year-old was injured due to a very strong challenge from Republic of Ireland winger Aiden McGeady during Friday evening's titanic clash at Celtic Park.

It certainly didn't look too promising for his involvement in the Black Cats' next fixture when he was pictured with a protective boot fitted to his right leg after the conclusion of the Euro 2016 qualifier.

Furthermore, the problem caused his exclusion from the side that faced England in last night's friendly contest, which the Three Lions won convincingly 3-1.

Fletcher was gutted to have missed out on the chance to test himself against the English, but luckily for him the damage is not long-term and he will be firmly in Poyet's plans ahead of a crucial away game against the struggling Foxes.

Nigel Pearson's men are entrenched within the bottom three of the Premier League standings following an insipid run of form which has seen them suffer four straight defeats without registering a single goal.

With that in mind, Saturday's hosts won't be relishing the prospect of facing an in-form Fletcher, who has notched four times in his last five appearances at club level.

Meanwhile, Gus Poyet will be mightily relieved to have his star striker available for selection ahead of what appears to be a vital encounter.