Overview

• Sunderland said Diarra underwent successful surgery on Monday after suffering a groin injury in training last week.
• The midfielder missed the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa following the injury, which occurred before that fixture.
• Club guidance points to a December return, with rehabilitation now under way at the Academy of Light.
• Local estimates indicate he will miss at least nine matches before December based on Sunderland's schedule.
• Senegal's AFCON campaign runs from December 21 to January 18, so a call-up could extend his absence beyond club recovery timelines.