AliousAfter Sunderland’s long unbeaten streak in the Championship came to an end with a loss at Sheffield United, now seems like an opportune moment to reflect on the impact manager Régis Le Bris has made since taking charge.
While a run of six winless games — culminating in their first defeat in 11 matches — has subjected the Frenchman to some scrutiny from fans for the first time, the broader perspective reveals a largely positive picture. Sunderland, though now five points off the top spot instead of five points clear as they were a month ago, are still far ahead of where they were just a few months ago.
To go from finishing 16th in the league last season to being in contention for automatic promotion this term is no small feat. The team boasts the fourth-best defensive record in the Championship and sits just two points behind pre-season title favorites Leeds United. Despite injuries and suspensions sidelining key players such as Jude Bellingham, Jobe Bellingham, Romain Mundle, and Dennis Cirkin, Sunderland managed to maintain an unbeaten run until their visit to Sheffield.
### Dave Jones Praises Le Bris’ Tactical Influence
Sky Sports presenter and Sunderland non-executive director Dave Jones remains confident in Le Bris’ leadership. With Stoke City visiting the Stadium of Light on Saturday, he sees this as a perfect opportunity for the team to return to winning ways.
“I think [Le Bris] has delivered what we expected him to,” Jones told the *Not the Top 20* podcast. “We knew he was an exceptional coach, and that’s what we needed. We’re structured and organized as a club, but we were looking for a coach who could realize our potential. Régis has brought tactical clarity and discipline to the team, which has been crucial.”
Jones noted that Le Bris has turned Sunderland into one of the most tactically astute sides in recent memory.
### Sunderland’s Defensive Resilience
“What he’s done is make us much more compact as a team,” Jones continued. “We’re far better in transitions now, and we’ve developed confidence in our defensive structure. Even when we lose possession, we’re no longer at risk of conceding waves of shots. That cohesion has been evident throughout our performances.”
However, Jones admitted there’s still room for improvement in the attacking third: “We need to create more chances and have more shots on goal to sustain our position. No one at the club is celebrating yet because we know we haven’t achieved anything concrete. But there’s a real belief that automatic promotion or a strong play-off run is within reach.”
### Why Sunderland Chose Le Bris
Jones also shed light on the club’s decision to appoint Le Bris, a move that followed a patient, deliberate process after the dismissal of Mick Beale. Sunderland spent four months evaluating candidates, including Aberdeen’s current manager Jimmy Thelin, before settling on the former FC Lorient coach.
“Régis was someone we were familiar with because of his track record in France, though it was relatively short,” Jones explained. “Kyril [Louis-Dreyfus, Sunderland’s owner] was aware of his work at Lorient, and as we spoke to him, it became clear we were dealing with a serious football mind. His approach to coaching is almost professorial, meticulous in every detail.”
Le Bris’ deep knowledge of French football was instrumental in recruiting impactful players like Chris Mepham and Wilson Isidor, both of whom have been game-changers. Isidor, in particular, has been a revelation, thanks to Le Bris’ familiarity with his potential from their time in France.
Jones highlighted how well Le Bris has adapted to the demands of the Championship and the English football culture: “What has surprised me is his ability to connect with the fans. He’s authentic and warm, and he doesn’t pretend to be anything he’s not. That honesty resonates with people and makes him a natural fit for Sunderland.”
### Looking Ahead
Despite recent challenges, Le Bris’ influence is undeniable. His tactical expertise and ability to instill discipline and resilience in a young squad have transformed Sunderland into promotion contenders. With a vital game against Stoke on the horizon, the team has a chance to reignite their campaign under a manager who continues to earn admiration for his thoughtful and measured approach.
Alious
