David Moyes looks to boost Sunderland striker Victor Anichebe's match fitness

David Moyes is looking to hand Victor Anichebe a start for Sunderland's second string in a bid to boost his match fitness.
Victor Anichebe in action at Stoke CIty. Picture by FRANK REIDVictor Anichebe in action at Stoke CIty. Picture by FRANK REID
Victor Anichebe in action at Stoke CIty. Picture by FRANK REID

The 28-year-old striker is yet to start a game for the first team after arriving on a free this summer.

But Anichebe, who came on as a sub in the 2-0 defeat to Stoke City, could start for Sunderland Under-23s tonight against Derby County at the Stadium of Light (7pm kick-off).

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The former Everton and West Bromwich Albion striker hasn’t been ready to start a Premier League game after missing pre-season after his release by the Baggies.

With the Sunderland boss currently without nine first-team players through injury, Moyes says he needs as many senior figures as he can call on.

He returned to full training during the recent international break after a groin problem.

Moyes said: “Victor was in the squad at Stoke and got a few minutes near the end.

“I don’t think he’s ready to start.

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“Ideally, I’d have probably tried to get him a reserve game first, but I couldn’t do that.

“I needed him at Stoke because he was a senior player and we didn’t have many of those available.”

Entry to the game is free for SAFC season card holders on production of their valid 2016-17 season card.

Entry for non-season card holders is priced at £3 for adults and £1 for over 65s and under 16s.