Dickson Etuhu, David Connolly and Darren Ward will not play again for Sunderland this season.

The trio have missed the Lads last few games through injury, although only Etuhu has been getting anything resembling regular first team football this season.

Etuhu has been struggling with a knee strain since he returned from Nigeria's African Cup of Nation's campaign in February, while Ward's back injury forced Marton Fulop's recall from Stoke City after just a few days. It is hoped that neither will require surgery,

Roy Keane all but confirmed that both Etuhu and Ward wouldn't be back this season. He said: "I wouldn't like to say for certain but realistically you have to say it is very unlikely that they'll be involved again this season.

"Both of them have been out for quite some time and so even if they were to return to full fitness, they would need some games to build up their sharpness and we've only got one or two reserve games remaining this season, so you have to say it is very very unlikely, it would be a surprise put it that way. It I was a betting man, I would rule them out for the rest of the season.

"The injuries have been disappointing for them because obviously they want to be involved. But injuries are part and parcel of football and at least they've certainly played their part in making a contribution to the club this season."