Liam Manning admits his squad faces a devastating triple injury setback, leaving Sunderland with a massive advantage ahead of their clash against a depleted Bristol City in the Championship.

Bristol City manager Liam Manning faces mounting challenges as his side prepares to face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday evening. The Robins are reeling from a comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday, and a growing injury list threatens to derail their hopes during the hectic Christmas period.

Sunderland, under Régis Le Bris, come into the clash buoyed by a morale-boosting 2-0 win over Stoke City last weekend. The Black Cats ended a seven-game winless streak in the Championship and sit just three points behind league leaders Sheffield United, with their sights firmly set on the summit. Adding to their optimism, Chris Mepham is available for selection after serving a one-match suspension.

In contrast, Manning’s squad is stretched thin. Speaking after the Portsmouth loss, the Bristol City boss admitted he had no certainty over Scott Twine’s availability. “I have no idea, to be honest,” he said. “He didn’t train yesterday, did a bit on Thursday but didn’t feel great after it, so I don’t know at the moment.” When asked about the chances of Mark Sykes and Kal Naismith featuring, Manning was blunt: “No.”

The Robins face an uphill battle against an in-form Sunderland side eager to capitalise on their woes.