Régis Le Bris recalls Lutsharel Geertruida as Sunderland reshape defence for Man Utd | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris makes one change for Manchester United, recalling Lutsharel Geertruida for his first start since the Tyne-Wear derby win at Newcastle United. With Dan Ballard starting a three-game ban, Nordi Mukiele moves to centre back and Trai Hume stays on the right of midfield.

According to Sunderland Echo, the XI is Roefs, Geertruida, Mukiele, Alderete, Reinildo, Xhaka, Sadiki, Hume, Le Fée, Talbi, Brobbey. Bench: Ellborg, O'Nien, Mayenda, Isidor, Rigg, Angulo, Cirkin, Ta Bi, Diarra.

Le Bris has Nilson Angulo fit enough for the bench, while Bertrand Traore is not being rushed. He framed selection as a short-term push to win this game and said Geertruida remained firmly in contention despite uncertainty over his longer-term future.

The head coach highlighted Geertruida’s versatility, noting he can operate in midfield, at right-back and as a left-sided centre back. That flexibility helps the squad, he said, though strong competition can limit starts.

Le Bris also set a cautious plan for wide players returning from injury, stressing that training levels must earn minutes and those chances can build credit for future selections.

Manchester United are without Benjamin Šeško due to a shin injury. Amad starts on his first Stadium of Light appearance since his 2022/23 loan, with Joshua Zirkzee also coming into the side.

Source: Sunderland Echo