Regis Le Bris’ Tactics Are Holding Back a Key Sunderland Ace Despite His Best Efforts

**Regis Le Bris’ Tactics Are Holding Back a Key Sunderland Ace Despite His Best Efforts** 

Sunderland’s 2-2 draw against Watford was another frustrating result that exposed a recurring tactical issue under Regis Le Bris. While the Black Cats managed to salvage a point, the performance mirrored their previous 2-2 home draw against Plymouth Argyle—marked by an overly cautious, defensive setup that’s preventing key players from fully influencing games. 

**Wilson Isidor** bore the brunt of this tactical rigidity, once again left isolated as the lone striker. However, it wasn’t just Isidor feeling the strain. **Trai Hume**, one of Sunderland’s most dynamic and versatile players, saw his attacking influence significantly limited due to Le Bris’ conservative approach. 

### **How Le Bris’ Defensive Shape Is Restricting Trai Hume** 

Against an out-of-form Watford side, Sunderland should’ve been able to assert dominance, but their inability to create clear-cut chances stemmed from Le Bris’ insistence on a defensive midfield setup. Deploying **Salis Abdul Samed** in the middle meant Sunderland lacked fluidity going forward, with Hume pinned back in a deeper role compared to his left-sided counterpart, **Dennis Cirkin**. 

While Hume managed to register an assist for **Luke O’Nien’s** goal—a contribution that came from a set-piece—his open-play impact was stifled. Tasked with containing **Giorgi Chakvetadze** and covering for Watford’s attacking full-back **Yasser Larouci**, Hume’s natural attacking instincts were curtailed. This was a missed opportunity, as Larouci’s defensive vulnerabilities could have been exploited had Hume been given the freedom to push higher up the pitch. 

### **Unleashing Hume’s Full Potential Could Transform Sunderland’s Attack** 

Hume isn’t just a solid defensive full-back; he’s a creative force. Despite his restricted role, he’s still Sunderland’s **third-highest assist provider**, outperforming more advanced players like **Jobe Bellingham**. His ability to deliver precise crosses, make overlapping runs, and link up with attackers is vital for Sunderland’s offensive output. 

If Le Bris insists on sticking with his current formation, the solution isn’t just to add another striker—it’s to **give Hume the license to attack**. Allowing him to overlap, stretch opposition defenses, and deliver from wide areas would ease the burden on isolated forwards like Isidor and create more goal-scoring opportunities. 

Limiting Hume’s attacking freedom doesn’t just hinder his individual performance; it stifles Sunderland’s overall creativity. If Le Bris wants to turn these frustrating draws into wins, unlocking Hume’s full potential must be a priority.