How Sunderland’s Squad Could Look Under Régis Le Bris If Transfer Rumors Are True
Sunderland kicked off their Championship season with a 2-0 victory away at Cardiff City on Saturday.
Eliezer Mayenda led the attack for Sunderland as Régis Le Bris unveiled his first starting lineup as the Black Cats’ head coach.
Le Bris didn’t spring any surprises in his selection, sticking with the same XI that played to a 2-2 draw against Marseille at Valley Parade the previous Saturday. Aji Alese was paired with Luke O’Nien in central defense, while Alan Browne joined Dan Neil in midfield.
Leo Hjelde was unavailable due to injury, which allowed Nectar Triantis to make the squad despite missing the pre-season because of injury. Pierre Ekwah also made the bench after recently recovering from a back injury.
O’Nien opened the scoring in the first half, heading in a goal following Patrick Roberts’ free-kick and an assist from Dennis Cirkin. Sunderland went into the break with a 1-0 lead. Jack Clarke then sealed the victory in the second half, giving Le Bris his first Championship win.
Here’s a look at how Régis Le Bris’ squad could shape up if the transfer rumors prove to be true:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
Patterson has started 91 of Sunderland’s 92 league games since their promotion to the Championship and signed a new contract with the club last year, despite interest from Premier League teams. The 23-year-old, proud of playing for his boyhood club, is expected to stay this summer unless a significant offer comes in.
2. RB: Trai Hume
After a breakout 2022-23 season, Hume, 22, extended his contract with Sunderland in June last year, with his deal now running through the summer of 2027.
3. LB: Dennis Cirkin
The former Tottenham left-back is a crucial player for Sunderland when healthy. Unfortunately, Cirkin spent much of last season sidelined with injuries.
4. CB: Aji Alese
The 23-year-old defender has missed a significant portion of this season due to injury but recently signed a contract extension with the club.
