Sunderland's Habib Diarra ruled out until December after successful surgery

The 21-year-old Senegal international suffered a groin injury in training prior to the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa in the English Premier League on Sunday.

He underwent a successful operation and will now begin period of rehabilitation until the end of the year.A club statement read: "Sunderland AFC midfielder Habib Diarra underwent successful surgery on Monday.

"After sustaining a groin injury in training ahead of the Club's Premier League fixture versus Aston Villa, the 21-year-old will now begin a period of rehabilitation at the Academy of Light.

"Diarra, who moved to Wearside from RC Strasbourg in July, is scheduled to return to action in December.

"Wishing you well in your recovery, Habib!"

Diarra joined the Black Cats from Strasbourg at the start of the season and featured in the club's first four league games of the new season, alongside two appearances for Senegal.

READ MORE: Stellenbosch can turn things around - Lee Langeveldt