Sunderland's Pickford out 6-8 weeks with ACL strain

Sunderland manager David Moyes announced Thursday that goalkeeper Jordan Pickford will miss up to two months, after straining his ACL in a 3-1 defeat to Manchester United on Boxing Day.

The 22-year-old was initially reported to be out for three months, but Moyes confirmed Pickford will be "looking at six-to-eight weeks" on the sidelines, as his ACL was strained instead of ruptured. Vito Mannone is expected to deputise in goal during Pickford's absence.

The loss of Pickford couldn't come at a more vital period for the Black Cats, who have slowly clawed their way up the table - now just two points back of 16th place - since being bottom of the league at the end of October.

Throughout, Pickford has been the anchor for a leaky ship.

Since taking over this season, the young goalie has risen from obscurity to become one of the hottest prospects that England has to offer. His clean sheet performances at home to Watford and Hull highlighted the true potential of the Sunderland native.

But Moyes is confident Pickford's replacement will step up, saying, "Vito Mannone is fine and he's been training for many weeks since his (elbow) injury. He has a lot of experience."

The Italian shot-stopper began the season as Sunderland's No. 1, and played in its first two Premier League matches - both defeats - before injuring his elbow and subsequently losing his starting job to Pickford.

Sunderland will next be in action Dec. 31 at Burnley.