Sunderland play host to West Ham in the third round of the Carling Cup with both sides eyeing a good cup run.
Gyan set for Sunderland start, Hammers missing duo
Sunderland play host to West Ham in the third round of the Carling Cup with both sides eyeing a good cup run.
West Ham will be seeking a morale-boosting result after a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign, while Sunderland boss Steve Bruce insists they will be taking the competition seriously.
The Hammers are likely to be without midfield duo Valon Behrami and Thomas Hitzlsperger for the trip to Wearside.
Behrami sustained a knee injury in the draw at Stoke while Hitzlsperger is struggling with a thigh problem.
Israeli defender Tal Ben Haim is back after missing the Stoke game but long-term absentees Zavon Hines, Jack Collison and Peter Kurucz (all knee) remain sidelined.
Sunderland news
Sunderland are set to hand striker Asamoah Gyan his first start for the club.
The Black Cats' record signing, who has made two appearances as a substitute to date since his £13million-plus arrival from Rennes, will be joined by midfielder Bolo Zenden in the team, while Andy Reid and Jack Colback are also in contention.
However, skipper Lee Cattermole is suspended, while John Mensah (calf) and Michael Turner (ankle) will also miss out.
Keeper Craig Gordon is still a week away from returning to full training after breaking his arm, but striker Fraizer Campbell and David Meyler remain long-term absentees with knee problems.
