Whereas the worldwide break is a interval of boredom for Sunderland supporters, it does present a possibility to replicate, and that’s precisely what Regis Le Bris has been doing.
By no means one to get carried away, the Black Cats’ head coach has supplied one other levelled, but optimistic evaluation of his males’s exploits within the Premier League. Though the loss to Manchester United might have dented staff spirit, the truth is that we sit within the high half of the division, one level in need of Southampton’s total complete from final season.
Le Bris’ buzzword throughout his stint on Wearside has been ‘connection’, and it’s a phrase he has commonly dropped into interviews. Whereas it’s simple to speak sport in administration – I’m taking a look at you, Russell Martin – the phrase is one thing that the previous FC Lorient boss clearly believes in and has carried out inside his staff. Throughout his newest interview with the membership, Le Bris referred to the phrase six occasions, and who is aware of how usually he has uttered it to his employees and gamers.
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After the inflow of arrivals at Sunderland this summer season, connections have been at all times going to be examined, as normally it takes time for individuals to gel. Nonetheless, after simply seven video games, there’s clear proof that bonds have been shaped on and off the pitch. To construct a staff able to performing and profitable factors, everybody should pull in the identical route, it doesn’t matter what their place. Whether or not or not it’s Omar Alderete and Nordi Mukiele or the midfield trio of Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki, these partnerships have been solid and are thriving.
The connections that gamers have shaped are much more outstanding when you think about the vary of languages within the dressing room and the differing backgrounds and skillsets. Maybe the surest signal of this bond has been what has occurred after performances. The celebrations after the victory at Nottingham Forest confirmed that the gamers are buzzing and, extra importantly, collectively as one. Moreover, whereas the Lads are in all probability informed to applaud their followers, there seems to be a real curiosity and pleasure in doing so.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 27: Lutsharel Geertruida and Wilson Isidor of Sunderland have fun victory following the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Sunderland at Metropolis Floor on September 27, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photograph by Cameron Smith/Getty Photos)
Le Bris mirrored on the 11 factors gained as optimistic, however he highlighted a willingness to win, and if the rating is degree at 0-0, then his gamers are inspired to go for all three. Though some may desire a wise method, it’s pleasing to listen to that the supervisor will enable his gamers to go for it when mandatory. Even after we have been all the way down to 10 males in opposition to Aston Villa, that didn’t hamper the spirit and dedication to attain, and that appears to be all the way down to Le Bris’ confidence in his gamers to take action.
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A lot of the hype has been round Sunderland’s defensive expertise, with Robin Roefs, Mukiele and Alderete all being provided substantial reward. Nonetheless, our boss has rightly highlighted that defence begins from the very high of the pitch, and though they could not get the credit score, our attackers have executed a stellar job. Le Bris spoke about urgent excessive and profitable the ball near the opposition goalkeeper. Certainly, Wilson Isidor, Chemsdine Talbi and the opposite attackers have executed their defensive duties admirably, whereas offering a spark.
In fact, the ahead gamers are those who’re more likely to be scrutinised as the trendy sport is all about numbers and menace. Nonetheless, as Le Bris acknowledged, they’re enjoying in probably the most troublesome place on the pitch, particularly within the Premier League, the place chances are high extra sparse. For that cause, it is important to assist the gamers up high when the numbers are dry and issues will not be going their approach.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 2: Brian Bobbery poses for footage after signing a 5 12 months deal for Sunderland at The Academy of Mild on September 2, 2025 in Sunderland, England. (Photograph by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC by way of Getty Photos)
Brian Brobbey has are available in for some unwarranted criticism not too long ago, and whereas Le Bris was indirectly requested about this, he did present a good evaluation of the deadline day signings. Understandably, their affect has not been there but, however it’s far too quickly to move judgment. The 49-year-old mentioned that we’ve as much as 19 starters in our squad, which means that when their probabilities come, then they are going to be prepared, as they’re linked.
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Maybe the very best a part of this marketing campaign has been that Sunderland are channelling their id. We’re a membership of ardour, grit and dedication and that has been ingrained into the gamers. The supervisor and employees have additionally purchased into our journey from League One to the Premier League and can seemingly give their all for the badge.
I truthfully can’t keep in mind a calmer or extra composed supervisor on Wearside than Le Bris, however I wouldn’t have it every other approach.
