Brian Brobbey injury gives Sunderland major concern after Netherlands setback

Sunderland face an anxious wait over Brian Brobbey after the striker was forced off injured during the Netherlands' 1-1 draw with Germany.

Brobbey went down holding his leg shortly before half-time and appeared in considerable discomfort as he left the pitch. Netherlands manager Xavi Hernández subsequently confirmed that the 24-year-old is injured and will be replaced in his squad.

The timing is particularly frustrating for Régis Le Bris after Brobbey produced his best performance of the season with a hat-trick against Manchester City in Sunderland's previous Premier League game.

There is currently no confirmed diagnosis, although the way Brobbey left the pitch suggested a possible muscular problem.

Xavi confirmed after the Germany draw that the striker would not remain available for the Netherlands.

“Brian, unfortunately, is injured and we will call up another striker,” the Dutch coach said.

Brobbey will now require further assessment before Sunderland can establish the extent of the problem and whether he faces any significant spell on the sidelines.

Until those examinations have taken place, there is no confirmed timeframe for his return.

The concern for Sunderland is heightened by Brobbey's recent performances.

He was outstanding in the 5-3 defeat against Manchester City, scoring all three of Sunderland's goals and repeatedly causing problems with his physical presence.

That display appeared to provide Brobbey with significant momentum after establishing himself as an important part of Le Bris' attack.

Sunderland must now hope the international break gives their striker enough time to recover without missing Premier League matches.

More clarity should emerge once Brobbey has undergone medical checks, but his withdrawal from the remainder of Netherlands duty means Sunderland already know they will be getting their striker back earlier than expected.

Brobbey will undergo further assessment to determine the nature and severity of his injury.

Le Bris will be hoping the problem is minor, particularly after the striker's Manchester City hat-trick demonstrated how important he could become to Sunderland's attack this season.