Régis Le Bris signals continuity in Sunderland XI for Premier League opener at Ipswich Town | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris expects Sunderland’s opening-day line-up to look much like the side that finished last season so strongly, though places still have to be earned during pre-season. The Black Cats are stepping up preparations on their US tour.

According to Sunderland Echo, Sunderland collected eight points from their final four matches against Chelsea, Everton, Manchester United and Wolves to finish seventh and secure Europa League football. The head coach intends to lean on that core.

He says the players who ended the campaign hold the shirts if they maintain those standards through the pre-season programme, and so far they have. Le Bris highlighted the late-season intensity in training, ambition and standards as foundations to build on.

Sunderland have added experienced right back Thomas Meunier and remain keen to recruit high-calibre options on the right wing and at left back, which could shape selection. A handful more signings are expected before the window closes, but the message remains continuity.

Despite losing both games on the US tour to date, Le Bris is pleased with progress and feels the squad’s familiarity leaves them well ahead of this stage a year ago. He believes the group are more efficient, with automatic behaviours developing, while accepting there is still refinement to come depending on the opposition.

Sunderland end the tour against Wrexham on Sunday, when Le Bris plans to field different XIs in each half to spread minutes.

Source: Sunderland Echo