Sunderland boss on Bertrand Traoré fitness call and Chemsdine Talbi selection after Everton, before Chelsea test | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris says Bertrand Traoré could still feature in Sunderland’s final-day meeting with Chelsea, after opting for different wide options at Everton.

According to Sunderland Echo, the winger has played only once since leaving for AFCON in December, aggravating a knee problem when he came on in the 1-0 win at Leeds in March.

Traoré has returned to full training and was available for the last two league games, but Le Bris chose Nilson Angulo and Jocelin Ta Bi. He cited a complicated recovery and said he would review the call before Chelsea. The forward’s deal expires this summer, with a one-year option that may or may not be taken.

Le Bris also promoted Angulo to start ahead of Chemsdine Talbi at Everton, pointing to Angulo’s sharp work in training. Talbi came on early in the second half and is in contention this weekend.

Sunderland will again be without Dan Ballard through suspension on Sunday. Luke O’Nien is on standby to start as the Black Cats assess an injury to Omar Alderete.

A win over Chelsea would take Sunderland into the top eight if Brentford fail to beat Liverpool on the final day. They could also catch Brighton and reach the Europa League if they beat Chelsea and Fabian Hürzeler’s side lose to Manchester United.

The comeback at Everton set up that scenario and took Sunderland to 22 points from losing positions, more than any other side in the league. Le Bris praised their composure and control, saying the team’s character and style give them time to respond and that he relishes the environment.

Source: Sunderland Echo