Despite scoring an impressive 15 goals in 24 league appearances during the 2018/19 season, Sunderland sold him for £3.5 million. Now, they regret that decision as he outperforms both Mundle and Mayenda in recent matches.
Sunderland regained momentum in the Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough, bouncing back from an unexpected loss to Plymouth Argyle. This win puts Regis Le Bris’ team at five wins from six matches, as they prepare for a match against Tom Cleverley’s Watford.
Le Bris has successfully integrated Romaine Mundle and Eliezer Mayenda into the lineup, having developed their potential since his arrival, unlike previous Sunderland managers. Last season, neither player was a regular starter, with Mayenda failing to score and Mundle making just five starts after his January transfer from Standard Liege. This season, however, they have combined for seven goals and assists, showcasing their impact, including Mundle’s goal against Portsmouth.
In the recent match against Middlesbrough, the spotlight was on 17-year-old Chris Rigg, who scored the winning goal. Nonetheless, it’s unlikely that Mundle and Mayenda will be dropped for the upcoming game at Vicarage Road, as they have played in every league match so far.
While Le Bris is pleased with his attacking duo, Sunderland is currently held back from the top of the table by former youth player Josh Maja’s outstanding performance for West Bromwich Albion. Maja, once a promising talent at Sunderland, had a standout season in League One before moving to Bordeaux. Now 25, he has scored six goals in six games for West Brom this season, outpacing Mundle and Mayenda, who have five goals between them.
Sunderland may regret losing Maja during his early career, especially given his current form. As the two teams compete for supremacy in the Championship, Le Bris hopes Maja’s scoring streak will subside, allowing Sunderland to reclaim their position at the top.
