Sunderland have received a huge boost regarding the injury to Kenwyne Jones with the news that the big striker will be in line for a return in 6-8 weeks.

Jones sustained a knee injury on international duty for Trinidad & Tobago against England in the Summer and went under the knife on Monday amidst fears that he could be ruled out for the year or even the entire season.

However, surgery has revealed that the injury was not as severe as first thought and Jones is now set to return to training in September with a return to action in October possibly on the cards.

Black Cats boss Keane was understandably delighted at the news.

“Fortunately, we’ve avoided major surgery and expect him back in training in the next six-to-eight weeks…it’s great news for everyone at the club – Kenwyne is a big player for us”, he proclaimed.

Jones is certainly a massive player for Sunderland and would have been a key fantasy signing for many managers. His 7 goals and 10 assists made him a bargain buy last term and even though his price as been hiked this season as a result, he could still represent decent mid-price value on his return to action.

In the meantime Keane is expected to make a signing up front with United’s Saha a possible target. Sunderland look set to go into the season with a 4-5-1 with a lone striker – right now that looks like being Daryl Murphy.