The Sunderland youngster who just became key to Alex Neil's plans and promotion hopes

Sunderland do not yet know the extent of the groin injury, but Alex Neil noted afterwards that Winchester is a player who would grin and bear anything not too serious. The Northern Irishman's dejection as he left the pitch seemed to tell its own story.

Neil has spoken of 'pillars' in his team, players whose consistency has created the stability that has in turn seen results improve significantly.

Winchester is one; Dennis Cirkin another.

Both have played in unfamiliar roles that have helped Neil solve the team's defensive issues, offering both pace and poise on the ball either side of Bailey Wright. It has made Sunderland less vulnerable to the counter attack, and ensured they can still get enough players into the final third to hurt the opposition.

In recent weeks, it has also allowed for Nathan Broadhead to come into the starting XI without loosening the team's impressive defensive shape.

But Cirkin will play no part in the final week of the campaign, and it seems reasonable to assume that will be the same with Winchester.

Sunderland's longer-term lack of options in the full back positions will be exposed again, and it now seems certain that Neil will turn to Callum Doyle as he bids to get his side over the line in the race for the top six.