Jeremain Lens and Billy Jones have been ruled out of Sunderland's League Cup tie against Exeter City.

The duo, who have featured in all three of the Black Cats' games to date this term, are both struggling with injury issues.

Boss Dick Advocaat revealed in his pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday night's second-round clash that Lens had a knee problem, while Jones has a "fresh injury" to contend with.

There is some good news for Sunderland, though, as both players are expected to be fit for the trip to Aston Villa next weekend.

Advocaat's side have made a slow start to the season, picking up just one point from the first nine on offer in the Premier League.