Blow for Sunderland as striker Jones faces lengthy spell on the sidelines

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Unlucky Black Cat: Jones could be out for a long time

Tentative plans have been drawn up for the 23-year-old to be operated on in the middle of next week.

Jones will go under the surgeon’s knife but if he has damaged his cruciate, then he will be lucky to play any part in Sunderland’s second season back in the Barclays Premier League.

Jones' absence for the majority of the season would leave a huge hole in Roy Keane’s plans.

He scored seven league goals as Sunderland preserved their top-flight status following his £6million move from Southampton.

His form drew attention from Liverpool, who were warned to forget about making a £10m offer.

Keane labelled Jones an untouchable and will have to redraw his summer transfer plans if the striker is to miss most of the forthcoming campaign.

He still intends to move for Diego Forlan but could have to find their funds for a stop-gap target man.

Sunderland will seek hefty compensation from the Trinidad and Tobago FA for losing such a key figure for such a long time.