Sunderland star returns to training ahead of FA Cup clash | OneFootball

Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris has revealed that Wilson Isidor has trained with the squad ahead of their FA Cup tie against Everton. 

Isidor has been sidelined since featuring as a substitute in the Black Cats’ stalemate with Manchester City on New Year’s Day, but his involvement in first-team training has raised hopes of a possible return this weekend.

“He is getting better,” Le Bris said. 

“He trained this morning with the squad and we’ll see if he is available or not.

“Yes [he is touch-and-go], but we don’t want to take any unnecessary risks so we will see.”

In a demanding run that includes four games in nine days, Le Bris acknowledged that the cup tie could provide an opportunity to rotate his squad and give minutes to players who have featured less frequently.

“New game, new energy,” he said. “We want to go strong, because we respect this competition. 

“At the same time, we will have to manage the load of a few players. At the minute, we don’t have the full picture, because the schedule is so busy so every hour is useful to understand exactly the situation. 

“We won’t take unnecessary risks, but we will select the best team possible, so we will see.”

However, Le Bris admits that fatigue is a problem that has caused them trouble, having lost 3-0 to Brentford in the week, marking their first loss in over a month. 

“Regarding the game against Brentford, they were strong, first of all,” he said.

“It was a tough challenge. They are in good form. I think until the penalty miss, it was still possible to manage the game. After that, the momentum swung and it was totally different. It could’ve been heavier at the end. 

“When you don’t take those moments, especially away from home, against a strong side, the league is relentless. We know that,” he continued. 

“So, fatigue, maybe, but it’s not an excuse. This was the case for Brentford as well. We are learning. It’s a tough league and it is still really important to experience those situations to grow.”