Richardson banned for Liverpool game

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce will be without Kieran Richardson through suspension for tomorrow’s Barclays Premier League clash with Liverpool.

The former Manchester United midfielder, who has been playing at left-back in recent weeks, was sent off for a second bookable offence during the 2-2 draw at Manchester United a fortnight ago and must serve a one-match ban.

However, Northern Ireland international George McCartney, the club’s only specialist left-back, is fit, while Lee Cattermole (heel) and John Mensah (calf) are also available.

Manager Steve Bruce will assess striker Kenwyne Jones following his return from international duty in the Caribbean, while Dutch midfielder Boudewijn Zenden could also be included against his former club, provided his international clearance comes through in time.

Provisional squad: Gordon, Fulop, Bardsley, McCartney, Ferdinand, Turner, Nosworthy, Da Silva, Mensah, Cana, Cattermole, Reid, Malbranque, Henderson, Zenden, Bent, Jones, Campbell, Murphy, Healy.