Sunderland pre-season winners and losers as Melker Ellborg and Leo Hjelde face testing starts | OneFootball

Early takeaways from Sunderland’s first friendlies show clear standouts. Chris Rigg, Enzo Le Fée and Timur Tutierov have impressed, while Melker Ellborg and Leo Hjelde have work to do.

Sunderland Echo notes that these judgements stem from outings against York City and Liverpool in Nashville. Rigg scored at York, then shone before the interval against Liverpool. Le Fée has three in two, his curler bringing Sunderland level.

Rigg looks stronger on the ball and increasingly comfortable deeper, dovetailing neatly with Le Fée. Competition in midfield will sharpen as seniors return.

Tutierov owns three goal contributions across the two games and has backed up a new contract with bright displays. A further loan could still aid the 20-year-old given wide competition, though Europa League and cups may change the calculation.

Hjelde suffered knee discomfort at York, and while his return against Liverpool was welcome, he has not yet looked ready for Premier League minutes. His left foot and cover at centre-back and left-back are assets, and there is time to change that.

Ellborg has been uncertain with the ball at his feet. He also had a short Premier League run in away wins at Leeds United and Newcastle United, so this may just be rhythm.

Teenage forward Tom Proctor scored at York and looked lively from the bench against Liverpool. He pressed with energy and showed smart movement, though he is still developing and expectations will be kept sensible.

Next come Wrexham, Leeds United, Rennes and Lens.

Source: Sunderland Echo