Six things Sunderland’s pre-season reveals for 2026/27 | OneFootball

Sunderland lost 4-2 to Liverpool in Nashville, then head to New Jersey to face Leeds United. According to Sunderland Echo, six early takeaways hint at 2026/27 priorities.

Chris Rigg scored at York and impressed with Le Fée against Liverpool, looking at home as a number eight. Tom Proctor, the youngest on tour, also netted at York and was bright in Nashville, while Dan Ballard returned for 45 minutes.

Le Fée has three goals from the first two games and is attacking central areas with intent. If he stays on penalties, he could push towards double figures.

A right winger remains a priority, yet Hume high on the right is a viable option in certain matches. Against an inexperienced Liverpool XI, he and Nordi Mukiele contained Rio Ngumoha and freed Mukiele to break.

Reinildo’s start has been steady after not doing enough for Liverpool’s opener. Cover on the left looks light, and while Hume can fill in, two right-footers curb the threat.

Competition will rise when Xhaka, Diarra and Sadiki return, but Rigg has strengthened his case to Le Bris. Proctor is raw yet justified his inclusion, and Ballard’s comeback matters amid Alderete, Mukiele and O’Nien, with Europe demanding careful minute management.

Source: Sunderland Echo