While the international break is a period of boredom for Sunderland supporters, it does provide an opportunity to reflect, and that is exactly what Regis Le Bris has been doing.
Never one to get carried away, the Black Cats’ head coach has provided another levelled, yet positive assessment of his men’s exploits in the Premier League. Although the loss to Manchester United could have dented team spirit, the reality is that we sit in the top half of the division, one point short of Southampton’s entire
total from last season.
Le Bris’ buzzword during his stint on Wearside has been ‘connection’, and it is a word he has regularly dropped into interviews. While it is easy to talk a good game in management – I’m looking at you, Russell Martin – the word is something that the former FC Lorient boss clearly believes in and has implemented within his team. During his latest interview with the club, Le Bris referred to the word six times, and who knows how often he has uttered it to his staff and players.
After the influx of arrivals at Sunderland this summer, connections were always going to be tested, as usually it takes time for people to gel. However, after just seven games, there is clear evidence that bonds have been formed on and off the pitch. To build a team capable of performing and winning points, everyone must pull in the same direction, no matter what their position. Whether it be Omar Alderete and Nordi Mukiele or the midfield trio of Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki, those partnerships have been forged and are thriving.
The connections that players have formed are even more remarkable when you consider the range of languages in the dressing room and the differing backgrounds and skillsets. Perhaps the surest sign of this bond has been what has happened after performances. The celebrations after the victory at Nottingham Forest showed that the players are buzzing and, more importantly, together as one. Furthermore, while the Lads are probably told to applaud their fans, there appears to be a genuine interest and joy in doing so.
Le Bris reflected on the 11 points gained as positive, but he highlighted a willingness to win, and if the score is level at 0-0, then his players are encouraged to go for all three. Although some might prefer a sensible approach, it is pleasing to hear that the manager will allow his players to go for it when necessary. Even when we were down to 10 men against Aston Villa, that did not hamper the spirit and determination to score, and that seems to be down to Le Bris’ confidence in his players to do so.
Much of the hype has been around Sunderland’s defensive talent, with Robin Roefs, Mukiele and Alderete all being offered substantial praise. However, our boss has rightly highlighted that defence starts from the very top of the pitch, and although they may not get the credit, our attackers have done a stellar job. Le Bris spoke about pressing high and winning the ball close to the opposition goalkeeper. Indeed, Wilson Isidor, Chemsdine Talbi and the other attackers have done their defensive duties admirably, while providing a spark.
Of course, the forward players are the ones who are likely to be scrutinised as the modern game is all about numbers and threat. However, as Le Bris stated, they are playing in the most difficult position on the pitch, especially in the Premier League, where chances are more sparse. For that reason, it is vital to support the players up top when the numbers are dry and things may not be going their way.
Brian Brobbey has come in for some unwarranted criticism recently, and while Le Bris was not directly asked about this, he did provide a fair assessment of the deadline day signings. Understandably, their impact has not been there yet, but it is far too soon to pass judgment. The 49-year-old said that we have up to 19 starters in our squad, meaning that when their chances come, then they will be ready, as they are connected.
Perhaps the best part of this campaign has been that Sunderland are channelling their identity. We are a club of passion, grit and determination and that has been ingrained into the players. The manager and staff have also bought into our journey from League One to the Premier League and will seemingly give their all for the badge.
I honestly can’t remember a calmer or more composed manager on Wearside than Le Bris, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
