Régis Le Bris outlines Thomas Meunier role and signals end of Lutsharel Geertruida chase | OneFootball

Régis Le Bris believes Thomas Meunier will be a key and flexible addition for Sunderland after the Belgian joined on a free last week.

Meunier signed a two-year deal as the club’s first summer arrival and is on a break after World Cup duty with Belgium. According to Sunderland Echo, Le Bris has effectively drawn a line under efforts to re-sign Lutsharel Geertruida, with a near £20 million option not taken and Meunier’s availability viewed as the better route so funds can go to priority positions.

Le Bris said Sunderland expect more games this season and that Meunier offers a similar profile to Geertruida. He could operate inside as a third centre-back, probably, or as a full back or wing-back, giving the right flank tactical variety.

He added that experience only counts if players are fit and able to influence matches, citing last season’s balance alongside names such as Granit Xhaka. Meunier, 34, is experienced yet still fit, which increases depth and raises competition on the right.

He will link up with the squad after his post-World Cup break.

Source: Sunderland Echo