AliousWhen Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris unveiled his starting lineup against Sheffield United, few could predict how the French tactician would approach the game.
Known for favoring a 4-3-3 system during his tenure on Wearside, fans speculated about the roles of Adil Aouchiche and Eliezer Mayenda. Who would take the left wing? Who might adopt a more central attacking position?
Le Bris surprised everyone by opting for a dynamic 4-4-2 formation instead. Aouchiche was deployed as a traditional left midfielder, while Mayenda partnered Wilson Isidor up front.
The tactical shift paid dividends, with Sunderland securing a crucial 2-1 victory.
Mayenda shone brightly, contributing a goal and an assist in a performance that proved pivotal.
With Sunderland set to host struggling Portsmouth at the Stadium of Light this weekend, the question now is whether Le Bris will stick with his new formation.
A poll conducted by *The Echo* revealed overwhelming support for the 4-4-2 setup, with 85% of fans advocating for its continuation. Only 15% expressed a desire to revert to the familiar 4-3-3.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s clash, Le Bris provided updates on Sunderland’s injury list. While key players like Dan Ballard, Chris Rigg, and Salis Abdul Samed are progressing, most remain unavailable for the immediate future.
“Dan has a muscle injury that requires careful management. Salis is in full training, and we hope Chris Rigg will be ready for the FA Cup game against Stoke City,” Le Bris shared.
He also addressed the longer recovery timelines for players like Tommy Watson, Alan Browne, and Romaine Mundle.
Ahmed Abdullahi, though back in training, will need several weeks to regain full match fitness after a six-month layoff.
As Sunderland prepares for another crucial fixture, fans eagerly anticipate whether Le Bris’s tactical gamble will once again deliver results, keeping the Black Cats firmly in the promotion race.
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