Sunderland takeaways: Timur Tutierov twist, Chris Rigg clue and cult hero serenaded at York | OneFootball

Sunderland’s pre-season opener at York served up subplots, with Timur Tutierov starring amid uncertainty, Chris Rigg impressing centrally and Aji Alese returning.

Sunderland Echo notes the LNER Community Stadium friendly was chiefly about fitness for seniors and prospects, and former Sunderland defender Zak Johnson, now with York, was warmly applauded before kick-off.

Tutierov started despite expectations he could leave this summer. He scored and set up another, catching the eye of Régis Le Bris and his staff. Whether that shifts plans remains unclear.

Rigg began in central midfield, with Jocelin Ta Bi on the right, and he scored while showing greater strength in possession. Given York’s League Two status, any conclusions are cautious, but there were hints he is maturing physically.

Romaine Mundle and Dan Ballard sat out as they continued injury returns. Goalkeeper Anthony Patterson did not feature at all amid uncertainty over his future, despite training. Alan Browne’s situation is also uncertain, although he played the first half.

Swedish keeper Melker Ellborg, back-up to Robin Roefs, was serenaded throughout the first half and enjoyed another outing.

Aji Alese featured at left-back in the second half after a lengthy lay-off. The priority is keeping him available and building minutes gradually through pre-season.

Source: Sunderland Echo