While the ex-Lazio man is now injury free –after suffering a hamstring problem just four days into pre-season – he is still short on match fitness.
Meanwhile, Di Canio has confirmed that Phil Bardsley suffered a broken foot in Monday’s Under-21 encounter against Bolton.
That is likely to scupper Sunderland’s hopes of offloading the Bardsley before the end of the transfer window.
Sunderland Premier League Fixtures
Saturday August 17
15:00 Premier League Sunderland v Fulham
Saturday August 24
15:00 Premier League Southampton v Sunderland
Saturday August 31
17:30 Premier League Crystal Palace v Sunderland
Saturday September 14
15:00 Premier League Sunderland v Arsenal
Saturday September 21
15:00 Premier League West Brom v Sunderland