Sunderland starlets could impress Régis Le Bris at York City, who to watch | OneFootball

Sunderland’s pre-season opener at York City could give academy prospects a chance to catch Régis Le Bris’ eye. The result is secondary, selection and minutes will be more telling.

The Black Cats head to the LNER Community Stadium as fitness builds at different rates. Sunderland Echo notes that friendlies bring rotation and chances for youngsters.

Jenson Jones, 19, is a leading candidate after time with the senior group. Able at full-back or midfield, he has featured in the Carabao Cup and made Premier League benches.

Goalkeeper Joe Cowan, 16, could gain experience by travelling and working around the matchday group. Midfielder Jaydon Jones, 19, can play as a six or eight, but faces Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, Habib Diarra and Enzo Le Fée.

Trey Ogunsuyi, 19, impressed on loans at Falkirk and Shrewsbury Town, playing centrally or from the right. Another loan could follow, but pre-season will inform it.

Finn Geragusian, 18, mixes height, power and technique from the right or through the middle. This programme should show whether he stays with seniors, steps up to under-21s or goes on loan.

Jack Whittaker, 19, scored 11 for the under-21s and made the Premier League bench at Brighton. Others in the frame include Archie Lightfoot, Charlie Dinsdale and Ben Metcalf, while Timur Tuterov’s situation is less clear.

Not every youngster will feature at York, and one outing would not confirm promotion. These games offer experience under Le Bris and an early pointer to who might edge closer.

Source: Sunderland Echo