SHOCKING: Huge Problem for Regis Le Bris starting XI after long term injured player makes surprising return with 100% fitness…. A difficult decision on who to start against Portsmouth.
Regis Le Bris is enthusiastic about the competition for defensive spots, particularly after Dan Ballard’s unexpected yet welcome return to fitness last weekend.
Ballard, a key player for Sunderland last season, secured a new contract over the summer despite interest from top-tier clubs. Initially expected to be out until at least this weekend due to a pre-season injury, he surprisingly made the bench for Sunderland’s match against Burnley at the Stadium of Light. Ballard was brought on in the final stages to help secure the win after Dan Neil’s red card.
On Monday night, Ballard successfully completed a scheduled 45-minute appearance in Sunderland U21s’ 3-2 victory over Middlesbrough, putting him in contention to feature against Portsmouth. Meanwhile, Aji Alese has excelled in Ballard’s absence, helping Sunderland keep clean sheets in all three of their Championship fixtures.
This situation presents a tough decision for Le Bris in the coming weeks, but it’s a challenge he welcomes.
“As I mentioned last week with Chris [Rigg] and Alan [Browne], this is a very good problem for me and the team. Having strong competition for various positions pushes everyone to improve. When one player is unavailable, another can step in, ensuring the team maintains its high level. This is great news for us.”
A more pressing issue for Le Bris is Dan Neil’s one-game suspension, as the deeper midfield role is one of the few areas in the squad with limited depth. However, the head coach remains calm, confident that a solution will be found for the upcoming match at Fratton Park.
“We will find one, we will find one for sure,” Le Bris assured.
Alan Browne is likely to return to the side and take on that deeper role, although Pierre Ekwah is another potential option.