Sunderland dealt major blow as key star faces lengthy absence after fracturing foot in training

Sunderland’s preparations for this weekend’s meeting with West Ham have been dealt a serious blow after confirmation that Eliezer Mayenda has suffered a fractured foot in training.

The club revealed on Friday that the injury occurred during a high-intensity session earlier in the week, turning what first appeared to be an innocuous knock into a far more worrying setback. Scans later confirmed the fracture, ruling the young forward out of the West Ham clash and leaving his short-term prospects uncertain.

The timing could hardly be worse. Mayenda had been building momentum, growing in confidence with each outing and quickly becoming a figure supporters were beginning to rally around. His direct running, sharp movement and bravery in possession had added a spark to Sunderland’s attacking play, making his absence particularly painful at this stage of the campaign.

Reaction from fans was swift and emotional.

@RokerHeart wrote, “This is brutal timing. Just when Mayenda was starting to shine, football reminds you how cruel it can be. Wishing him a strong recovery.”

@WearsideWill added, “Massive loss. His energy and confidence were infectious. Hope the club gives him all the time he needs.”

Within the club, the mood is said to be one of frustration rather than panic. Medical staff acted quickly, and Mayenda has already begun his rehabilitation with the full support of teammates and coaches. Sunderland have resisted putting a timescale on his return, aware that fractured foot injuries demand caution and patience.

From a footballing perspective, the injury has forced a rethink. The coaching staff have been working on alternative attacking options in training, with players being asked to adapt and fill different roles. The message remains clear: this setback cannot derail the broader aims of the season.

Supporters, while disappointed, have also urged unity. “This is when character matters,” wrote @SAFCLoyalist. “Injuries happen. Now someone else has to grab their chance. We go again.”

Adding another twist, West Ham could arrive on Wearside without Granit Xhaka, who is a major doubt after picking up a late fitness issue. His potential absence has not gone unnoticed.

“If Xhaka misses this, it changes everything. His control and leadership are massive for us,” posted @IronsInsight.

@ClaretAndBlueDan echoed those concerns, saying, “You don’t replace Xhaka easily. Even at less than 100 percent, he gives us balance. Fingers crossed he’s fit enough.”

What was already a stern test has now taken on added edge. With Mayenda sidelined and questions surrounding Xhaka, the fixture has become one defined by resilience, adaptability and fine margins — a familiar theme in football, where fortunes can turn in a single training session.