Sunderland manager Steve Bruce is ready to throw John Mensah into his team for this weekend's Premier League clash at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Ghanaian has just recovered from a dislocated shoulder but, with regulars Michael Turner and Titus Bramble picking up injuries, Bruce believes the risk may have to be taken.
"It would be a big gamble. It's a gamble but, with his ability, if he can do it, I am prepared to make that gamble," he said.
"He trained today with it – in pain, I have to say – but he wants to try to give it a go, so a lot will depend on him.
"It's typical of him, he comes in and wants to train, which is probably three weeks quicker than he should be.
"But he wants to give it a go, so let's hope the specialists are right. They don't think by him training on it he can do any more damage, that's the most important thing.
"But it is sore, as you can imagine. John trained this morning and came through it and if he comes through tomorrow, then it will be his call."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email