Sunderland AFC would like to issue supporters with the following update on defender Papy Djilobodji.

Papy Djilobodji has returned to the club, late and having missed pre-season and the opening month of the season proper.

The club is taking legal advice on the situation, and the player has been undergoing fitness tests, to assess whether he has returned to the club in a state to play professional football.

There will be no further comment until the player’s fitness has been assessed fully and the club has received full legal advice.