Five Sunderland youngsters who could earn Europa League minutes as contract and transfer calls loom | OneFootball

A gruelling October could see Sunderland hand Europa League minutes to academy players as contract and transfer decisions near.

According to Sunderland Echo, 20 youngsters are on UEFA’s List B for the Europa League, giving Régis Le Bris options. Seven matches in 22 days span league, Europe and Carabao Cup, including trips to Torreense and Lech Poznan.

Rotation is likely and injuries have already exposed depth. Trey Ogunsuyi, prolific with the under-21s and loan-tested, has suitors for January, and with Brian Brobbey a concern behind Wilson Isidor, a Europa bench role or late cameo could help all sides.

Timur Tutierov featured in pre-season and debuted off the bench against Hull City in the Carabao Cup. He plays across the front line, though senior wingers are strong, and Blackburn Rovers are monitoring him, so a European taste could lift value before any loan.

Jenson Jones’ defensive versatility suits Thursday-Sunday demands and he could offer bench cover even if starts are unlikely. Finn Geragusian should not be rushed back from injury, yet a controlled cameo, if circumstances allow, would signal a pathway. Tom Proctor, 17, impressed in pre-season and debuted at Hull City, and a second cameo would confirm progress.

Also pushing are Felix Scott and in-form Charlie Dinsdale, while 15-year-old Charlie Scorer has already featured for the under-21s. Not all 20 will feature and Le Bris will not hand out minutes for the sake of it. Selective cameos could aid contracts, sharpen loans and enhance future value while encouraging the next generation.

Source: Sunderland Echo

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