Patrick Roberts was left out of Sunderland's game against Burnley as a precaution after picking up a knock in training, Tony Mowbray has confirmed. The former Manchester City forward was a surprise absentee when the teamsheet was released before kick-off at the Stadium of Light, with Mowbray making no suggestion of a problem during his media briefing on Thursday.
But Mowbray explained after the match that Roberts' knock is not thought to be a major problem, and he was left out against the Clarets to avoid the risk of making the issue worse and perhaps losing him for an extended period. "I don't think it's anything serious but he wasn't fit and available today," said Mowbray.
"We'll see how the week goes. Historically, I don't think Patrick has played three-game weeks all the time and he has picked up a knock in training and is uncomfortable.
