Phil Smith: Sunderland’s pre-season return underlines progress and promise across the squad | OneFootball

Sunderland began pre-season with a 5-1 win at York City, a strong first half from a seasoned XI establishing a four-goal lead before a mostly academy side competed well after the interval.

In Sunderland Echo’s reporting, Le Bris selected as experienced a line-up as available and saw Nordi Mukiele and Enzo Le Fée impress. York were tidy and threatening at times, yet Sunderland defended well and finished clinically.

Pre-season can mislead and 12 World Cup players remain absent, so only a handful of these starters might face Ipswich Town on 22 August. Even so, the first-half cohesion showed clear progress from this time last year.

The youngsters offered promise. Winger Charlie Dinsdale beat his full back, Tom Proctor finished smartly and striker Finn Geragusian troubled centre backs. Timur Tutierov excelled despite being likely to leave, while Trey Ogunsuyi linked play well. Another loan may suit him at this stage.

Le Fée looked sharper than ever. He scored twice with first-time finishes, produced a delicate offside chip after a delayed pass and a brilliant backheel to release Chris Rigg. His blend of creativity and goals could make him their most important player.

While it seems unlikely at this stage, though not certain, that Alan Browne and Jenson Seelt will have big roles, both impressed. Browne was tidy at the base of midfield and Seelt made key second-half interventions. Their strong start should aid any moves, and as things stand both are likely to travel to the US next week.

Source: Sunderland Echo