Kirchhoff has recovered from a hamstring issue and could be in contention for a start against Everton on Monday.

Kirchhoff played a full 90 minutes with the Under 23s in midweek, so it's hard to see him getting a start in this game. That said, if called from the bench, he'll be someone to keep an eye on.

Kirchoff (hamstring) is not in the 18-man squad for Saturday's match with Southampton.

Kirchoff continues to battle a hamstring injury that he suffered in a preseason match. Lamine Kone and Papy Djilobodji will start at centre-back.

Kirchhoff (hamstring) will not be available for Sunday's match with Middlesbrough.

Kirchhoff received an injection to help with the nerve pain in his hamstring, but he remains unfit for this weekend's match. Papy Djilobodji and John O'Shea could see playing time as replacements for Kirchhoff in central defence.

Kirchhoff has been ruled out for Saturday's Premier League opener against Manchester City.

Paddy McNair, who usually plays as a centre back, could get the start just days after being acquired from Manchester United.

Kirchhoff is questionable for Sunderland's Premier League opener on 13 Aug. against Manchester City after suffering a hamstring injury during a preseason friendly against Montpellier on Saturday, the Chronicle reports.

Kirchhoff was a solid piece in the defensive midfield for the Black Cats last season, and he was fully expected to resume that role this year under David Moyes. First team coach Robbie Stockdale said Kirchhoff will undergo a scan to determine the severity of the injury, which should assist in determining a return date.

Kirchhoff was substituted in the 64th minute of Tuesday's match against Crystal Palace because of fatigue, according to Chris Young of the Sunderland Echo.

Kirchhoff was replaced by Lee Cattermole, who then suffered a concussion, which could force Kirchhoff to play extended minutes Saturday against Southampton.

Kirchhoff struggled with a cramp toward the end of Saturday's match against West Ham, but he is expected to play Tuesday against Crystal Palace, the Sunderland Echo reports.

Kirchhoff has thrived in a holding midfield role after predominantly playing as a centerback while with Bayern Munich, and while his play has been vital for Sunderland, it's a position that doesn't lend itself to lots of fantasy points in most formats.