Sunderland's Record Signing Habib Diarra Out Until December After Groin Surgery

Sunderland midfielder Habib Diarra, who joined the club from Strasbourg in a club-record transfer in the summer, has undergone successful surgery on a groin injury sustained during training before a recent match against Aston Villa. The 21-year-old Senegal international is expected to be sidelined until December, missing at least nine games during this period. Sunderland’s head coach confirmed Diarra’s absence, and the midfielder will also miss Senegal's African Cup of Nations campaign starting in late December, potentially adding to his time away from the pitch. Prior to his injury, Diarra had been a key player for Sunderland, featuring in all of their Premier League games and providing an assist in a victory over Brentford. Sunderland currently sits seventh in the Premier League, having secured promotion from the Championship last season. The club and fans are hopeful for Diarra’s full recovery as they face a demanding schedule including high-profile fixtures and the crucial Wear-Tyne derby.