Régis Le Bris hails Sunderland pair as selection faith rewarded against Chelsea | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris praised Trai Hume after the Sunderland stalwart's second Premier League goal of the campaign set the Black Cats on their way to beating Chelsea and clinching Europa League football. According to Sunderland Echo, the head coach said his faith in Hume had been rewarded.

Hume has risen with Sunderland from League One to seventh in the top flight, playing more minutes than anyone except Robin Roefs and Enzo Le Fée across all competitions. The Northern Ireland international has shown his versatility, recently operating on the right wing ahead of an attacking full back, a call Le Bris backed before kick-off despite debate.

After a famous afternoon at the Stadium of Light, Le Bris said he was pleased rather than surprised to see that belief repaid. He stressed the value of connection, hard work and balance, calling Hume a model team-mate whose effort enabled his emergence on the day.

Sunderland's win also owed much to Luke O'Nien on his return to the starting XI. He defended strongly and delivered a pass through the lines to find Brian Brobbey for the crucial second as Sunderland surged forward.

Le Bris said the pair have helped preserve the dressing-room identity after a major summer overhaul, setting the tone for others. He added that they guided new arrivals in understanding what the club stands for.

Both now look set for key roles next season as Sunderland manage a heavier schedule.

Source: Sunderland Echo