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5 times possession lost, 13 touches, and failed to reach his target with his single cross and two long balls, oh no “I can’t get my head around him coming on earlier or even starting that game”- Sunderland reporter absolutely baffled by one ‘strange’ Regis Le Bris decision vs Coventry City
Anyone watching Sunderland’s clash with Coventry City on Saturday would have likely experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from frustration and disappointment to outright confusion.
After back-to-back defeats to Leeds United and Hull City, Sunderland seemed to be finding their feet again with victories over Sheffield Wednesday and Cardiff, plus a draw with Preston that reignited hopes for promotion.
But that optimism came crashing down at the CBS Arena, where Regis Le Bris’ side delivered a lackluster performance against Frank Lampard’s Coventry team.
Lampard was quick to suggest that the game was easier than expected—and he wasn’t wrong. Some of Le Bris’ tactical decisions appeared baffling and arguably handed the Sky Blues the advantage.
Regis Le Bris Misused Alan Browne Against Coventry
While no player emerged with much credit from Saturday’s debacle, one in particular—Alan Browne—found himself in an unusual position that may have contributed to his subpar performance.
James Copley took to Twitter/X to express his confusion, stating: “I can’t get my head around Alan Browne not coming on earlier or even starting that game—and then as a right winger? Probably wouldn’t have changed the result, but still strange. The break probably comes at a good time.”
Typically a central midfielder, Browne was brought on in the 78th minute to replace Patrick Roberts and was played out of position on the right wing. As expected, he struggled to make an impact in an unfamiliar role.
Browne had just 13 touches, completed only 64% of his passes, and failed to connect with his single cross or two long balls.
He also lost possession five times. It’s unclear why Le Bris made this move, especially since Roberts was already struggling by that point.
Le Bris Must Rotate After the International Break
Le Bris himself acknowledged the fatigue within his squad, calling the upcoming international break an essential opportunity to recharge tired legs.
With Sunderland’s key players having accumulated heavy minutes this season, it was only a matter of time before exhaustion began to affect performances.
Given Sunderland’s small squad, Le Bris has been forced to rely heavily on a core group of players, but it’s clear that this approach is beginning to take its toll.
Instead of continuing to overwork players like Chris Rigg, Trai Hume, and Roberts, Le Bris needs to trust the fringe players more.
After the international break, Sunderland’s situation will be more pressing with very little to lose.
Players like Browne, Jenson Seelt, Leo Hjelde, Milan Aleksic, and the recently fit Tommy Watson must be integrated into the team.
Only by giving them meaningful minutes can Sunderland ensure they’re ready to contribute when it matters most—during the play-offs.
