Aji Alese

Alese (shoulder) is nearing a return from injury that could happen against Aston Villa next week, coach Regis Le Bris said in the press conference, according to the Northern Echo. "Aji is close to coming back, but after a long period without playing it is still hard for him to reconnect with the level, so we will have to be patient."

Alese (shoulder) hasn't recovered from his injury and doesn't have a clear timetable for a return to action, Pranav Shahaney of Mackem News reports.

Alese (shoulder) is still recovering from his surgery and is expected to miss the opening three games of the season, according to his club.

Alese has joined Sunderland on a permanent basis away from West Ham.