SUNDERLAND have been hit with another blow ahead of the important Easter fixtures after learning Swedish forward Joel Asoro will be missing.

Asoro was withdrawn from Sweden Under-21s' game with Cyprus on Tuesday after suffering a head injury.

The team's physio has suggested he suffered concussion, meaning - according to guidelines that were changed a few years ago - he has to sit out for at least six days and it can often take longer, as a precaution.

That means Asoro will miss the Good Friday trip to Derby County and could well be the Easter Monday visit of Sheffield Wednesday to the Stadium of Light, as Chris Coleman's side look to close the five point gap to safety.

Sweden's physio Fredrik Bergstrom is quoted by Football Channel in Sweden saying: “Joel has incurred a brain injury in connection with an aerial duel at the start of the second half. Replaced directly. He is, under the circumstances, OK.

“He has a concussion. Return can not be forecast until the brain scan is started. It is at least 24 hours between the results of the scan. Earliest return six days after concussion. This is being evaluated continuously."

Asoro bagged a brace in a 3-0 victory over Turkey last week had to be withdrawn in the 55th minute against Cyprus at 0-0 with the head injury.