Sunderland boss happy with either Cattermole or Bridcutt

Today’s visit of Liverpool was due to come too early in Cattermole’s recovery from a groin injury, with fellow midfielder Jack Rodwell also missing out, albeit both are due to play a full part in training next week.

Bridcutt, expected to be included in the side today, has previously started just two league games this season, due to the form of Cattermole.

But while Cattermole has predominantly been ahead of Bridcutt in Poyet’s plans, the head coach says he is happy for either to operate as Sunderland’s defensive midfielder.

“If I go backwards to when we got Liam here, last January, the idea was that he knows the role perfectly,” said Poyet.

“Lee was still learning, and in that process of learning you don’t know how long it will take. I think Lee was getting better, but still making a few mistakes on the ball.

“Now this year, it has been totally different. Lee has been outstanding. That’s why Liam hasn’t been able to play.

“They’re different players, different characters, but they do the role very well.

“I think it’s a good challenge for the one who plays.

“It’s a big chance for them to do well. If there are games when you need a bit of energy, Lee will give you that. If you need more positioning, then maybe it’s Liam.

“But I feel comfortable with both and they know that.

“The good thing is they talk about that position a lot, between themselves. That makes it even better which is great for us.”

Meanwhile, full-back Anthony Reveillere is due to return for next weekend’s trip to Spurs, rather than be risked today.

Reveillere resumed full training on Monday after three weeks on the sidelines with an Achilles problem sustained in the warm-up prior to the Tyne-Wear derby.