“He will be on the bench for Sunderland’s play-off decider against Coventry City tomorrow night”- Regis Le makes team news announcement ahead of Sunderland’s play-off decider
Romaine Mundle will be named on Sunderland’s bench for their crucial play-off second leg against Coventry City tomorrow night, while Aji Alese remains sidelined and won’t be involved due to ongoing recovery.
Sunderland head into the match with a 2-1 aggregate lead following their win at the CBS Arena. Head coach Regis Le Bris now faces a tactical decision ahead of the decisive home tie.
In the first leg, Le Bris opted for a 4-4-2 formation, pairing Eliezer Mayenda and Wilson Isidor up front.
The system proved effective, raising the possibility of sticking with the same starting XI for the return leg.
However, Le Bris might consider reinforcing the midfield by reintroducing teenager Chris Rigg to the line-up, which could see Mayenda drop to the bench.
Mundle, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, adds depth to the squad. Though he won’t start, Le Bris confirmed the winger is fit enough to contribute off the bench if needed.
“Romaine is available,” Le Bris said. “We’ll have to wait a bit longer for Aji—maybe another week.
Romaine can come on for 10 to 25 minutes, but he’s not ready to start. He’s still a great option from the bench.”
Earlier this season, Le Bris had expressed caution over starting Patrick Roberts twice in one week due to past hamstring concerns.
However, Roberts has shown improved durability this season, and the coach is confident the winger can start tomorrow despite playing 86 minutes in the first leg.
Roberts’ offensive and defensive contributions are now both considered key to Sunderland’s strategy.
“Patrick has been really consistent this season, unlike in previous ones,” said Le Bris. “He’s in a good place and is a valuable team player.
Against Coventry, he showed not only his attacking talent but also his importance when we didn’t have the ball. I believe he’ll be ready to start again.”
