Elmohamady started on the bench for the sixth consecutive game, few days after coach Steve Bruce said the Egyptian wing-back had a big role to play in the team.

Ferdinand's hamstring complaint prompted Bruce to introduce Elmohamady in the early stages of the game.

The 23-year-old, who is on a season-long loan from ENPPI, had a quiet game as a right-back as Fulham rarely threatened the visitors.

Chances were few and far between in a dull game at Fulham's Craven Cottage.

Sunderland are sixth in the Premier League with 24 points, six behind fourth-placed Chelsea who play Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.