Arjun Menon
Aji Alese Facing Season-Ending Groin Injury
Sunderland defender Aji Alese will miss the remainder of the campaign after sustaining a severe groin injury during his debut for Portsmouth. The 25-year-old centre-back joined the Championship side on loan in January but lasted only minutes as a substitute against Preston North End before the injury occurred.
Portsmouth manager John Mousinho addressed the situation following a recent defeat to Sheffield United.
Aji unfortunately tore his groin in the game last week against Preston, so he’s most likely out for the rest of the season. I guess we were aware of the risk with Aji having not played for a while. We were willing to take that on, but unfortunately it didn’t work out.
This setback continues a brutal injury cycle for Aji Alese. The defender recently returned from a shoulder issue that kept him sidelined for over a year and previously suffered a broken leg in January 2025. Since joining Sunderland from West Ham United in July 2022, Aji Alese has made 31 appearances and scored one goal. He will now return to the Academy of Light to begin his recovery under the supervision of Sunderland medical staff.
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Sunderland Target FA Cup Progression at Oxford United
Reinildo Mandava has emphasized the weight of history as Sunderland prepare for a fourth-round FA Cup clash against Oxford United. The Black Cats have not won the trophy since 1973, and the Mozambican defender insists the squad understands the importance of the competition to the Wearside faithful.
Reinildo Mandava noted that Régis Le Bris has specifically highlighted the need to avenge a loss at the same venue from the previous season.
The manager talked and explained to us how important this cup is for us and the club. We know it will be a hard, hard game, but we will take all of our guns to go there and fight. Last season we lost there against them. So we have another opportunity to go and show different things and play to win.
The defender expressed his personal drive to succeed in the competition, citing a lifelong interest in English football. Sunderland aim to improve upon their recent historical record in the tournament, which include a final appearance in 1992 and a semi-final run in 2004. Follow TipsGG for comprehensive updates on Sunderland team news and match coverage.