LIAM LAWRENCE has been backed to overcome an injury nightmare and play a massive part in Sunderland's Coca-Cola Championship bid.

The attacking midfielder will miss the opening of the new season on August 7, when the Black Cats travel to Peter Reid's Coventry City, with ankle ligament damage.

It is the worst possible start to life at Sunderland for Lawrence, who moved from Mansfield Town in the summer.

The 22-year-old was one of six signings by Mick McCarthy in the close season - along with Stephen Elliott, Mark Lynch, Steve Caldwell, Dean Whitehead and Carl Robinson.

All are expected to have a major part to play in Sunderland's attempt to push for promotion.

Midfielder Jeff Whitley, part of the Sunderland side that lost out in the play-offs in May, has been impressed with the acquisitions made by McCarthy.

And after touring the United States with many of the new boys, Whitley hopes to see Lawrence back in action sooner rather than later.

"Going away to America was great and it really helped all of the lads to settle down," said Whitley, who signed a new deal last month to extend his stay at the club. "It looks quite good and we are just looking forward to the season.

"Losing Liam is a big blow because he is going to be a big player and hopefully he will be back as quickly as possible.

"The way last season ended was really disappointing and we are all determined to make a good start to the new campaign. We are aiming for automatic promotion and I'm convinced with the changes made we are in a strong position."

Whitley, who played 90 minutes in the 2-1 win at Barnsley on Monday night, could step aside at Scunthorpe United tomorrow.

McCarthy is keen to give every outfield member of his squad an entire match to increase his players' fitness levels.

And Whitley insists the manager's plans, especially after a gruelling trip across the Atlantic, are having the desired effect.

"The lads needed 90 minutes after working so hard in America," said Whitley, who is likely to play some part at Doncaster on Sunday. "It was tough with all the travelling and just going back to the training ground when we got back was like starting pre-season again.

"To start with a win at Barnsley was great because now we will be looking to push on and really build that fitness up. Another 90 minutes and most of us will be ready."

One of those players to play the entire game at Oakwell was young striker Chris Brown. The 19-year-old, who spent time on loan at hometown club Doncaster last season, looked lively filling in for the injured Kevin Kyle and Elliott.

And McCarthy has told Brown to listen to advice from his goalscoring strike partner on Monday, Marcus Stewart.

"Chris is a young lad and he will learn a lot playing with Stewart," said McCarthy.

l Paul Thirlwell, released by Sunderland, has signed a two-year deal at Sheffield United.