RLB explains Sunderland striker calls and tells Eliezer Mayenda to be patient | OneFootball

RLB has told Eliezer Mayenda to be patient after slipping behind Wilson Isidor in Sunderland’s striker hierarchy, with Brian Brobbey the first choice. As reported by Sunderland Echo, the head coach said selection reflects current momentum.

Mayenda has not featured since a late outing in the 2-1 Tyne-Wear derby win over Newcastle United in late March, and he has been an unused substitute in the four matches since. Isidor’s goal against Aston Villa has seen him regularly used from the bench in recent weeks.

Régis Le Bris outlined that Sunderland effectively have two strikers, noting Mayenda can also operate as a ten or a winger. He said Brobbey is dominant right now and Isidor is next in line, so Mayenda must wait for his opening. He stressed this is about form and evolution, not a lack of trust.

Le Bris acknowledged the frustration for those not starting but said competition is essential in a Premier League squad. He called it part of the process and the players’ learning curve, adding the staff will support those who show patience.

Mayenda turned 21 on Friday and has 22 appearances across all competitions this season. Sunderland will be without Dan Ballard through suspension for the Manchester United game at Old Trafford on Saturday, while Bertrand Traoré and Nilson Angulo are back from injury and likely to be used initially as impact substitutes, with training performances to dictate minutes.

Source: Sunderland Echo