Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce has revealed that Lee Cattermole is fully prepared to play against Crystal Palace on Monday night.

Cattermole was struggling with a groin problem prior to the international break, but the midfielder travelled to Germany for treatment from Dr Hans Muller-Wohlfahrt, who previously served as Bayern Munich's club doctor.

The trip proved to be a success for the 27-year-old and he will be available as Sunderland look for just their second win of the season.

"Lee is alright and he is available. He has had enough treatment and been to see a specialist in Germany who has made him feel a little bit better, Muller-Wohlfahrt... the master," Allardyce told reporters.

"With the specialist here and Hans, he has recovered and the good thing that came out of the international break is that he hasn't really missed a game."

Cattermole has started nine games in the Premier League this season.