Breen and Thornton almost ready for return

Irish media are reporting tonight that both Sean Thornton and influential defender Gary Breen are only around a 1-2 weeks away from full competitive action.

Breen, who celebrated his 30th birthday last month, has been out of action he was injured during November's 0-0 home draw against his former employers, Coventry City.

Thornton, 20, has been sidelined since being stretchered off with ankle ligament damage during Sunderland's 3-1 defeat to Newcastle Reserves at Durham in October.

Breen and Thornton's fellow Irish international Jason McAteer is set to return to action in time for Saturday's home game against Nottingham Forest.