Sunderland rocked as Fabio Borini is ruled out for three months with a groin injury
DAVID MOYES will have to rely on the Black Cats only fit striker Jermain Defoe after latest blow
SUNDERLAND have been rocked by the news forward Fabio Borini has been ruled out for three months with a groin injury.
The Black Cats confirmed the news on Thursday and do not expect the Italian to be back until just before Christmas.
Borini, aged 25, suffered the torn abductor ligament injury while taking a free-kick in the 1-1 draw with Southampton on Saturday and had to be subbed.
It is a hammer blow to Sunderland manager David Moyes, who desperately tried to bring in reinforcements to his frontline on deadline day.
A deal for Norwich's Steven Naismith broke down late on Wednesday, leaving the former Manchester United boss relying heavily on Jermain Defoe.
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The 33-year-old is the club's only remaining fit senior frontman, with 17-year-old Swede Joel Asoro the only other recognised striker.
And Moyes could be forced to search the free agents market to bolster his injury hit squad.
Ex-Liverpool man Borini scored five goals in 29 appearances in all competitions since moving to the Stadium of Light permanently last year following an initial loan spell at the club.