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Sunderland are widely expected to secure manager Regis Le Bris on a new contract in the near future, with confidence growing that the French coach will remain at the Stadium of Light after an impressive campaign.
Former Everton, Aston Villa and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness has played down any fears of Sunderland losing their head coach, insisting there is little reason for Le Bris to consider a move elsewhere. Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Wyness said the club is well positioned to retain the manager despite growing interest from rivals.
Le Bris has reportedly attracted attention from Crystal Palace and Fulham, should Oliver Glasner or Marco Silva leave their respective roles. However, Sunderland’s strong start to life back in the Premier League has only strengthened the case for continuity.
After guiding the Black Cats to promotion, Le Bris has continued to exceed expectations, with Sunderland currently sitting seventh in the table following a morale-boosting derby win over Newcastle United.
Le Bris Content at the Stadium of Light
Wyness, who now runs a football consultancy advising top-level clubs, believes Sunderland’s hierarchy are fully aware of the interest their manager is attracting and are keen to act decisively. He stressed that stability will be a major priority as the club looks to establish itself in the Premier League.
Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness said Sunderland’s board has shown itself to be progressive and proactive. In his view, the club is determined to maintain continuity and will have no difficulty finalising a new deal for Le Bris.
He explained that the manager appears settled, well-supported and satisfied with the backing he has received, particularly in the transfer market. With Sunderland strengthening effectively and Le Bris only beginning to shape the team in his image, Wyness sees no incentive for the coach to walk away.
Wyness also suggested that even a solid mid-table finish would represent an outstanding achievement in Sunderland’s first season back in the top flight, and one that would justify rewarding the manager. Above all, he emphasised that long-term success is built on stability, something he believes Sunderland’s board fully understands and will act on quickly.
AFCON Call-Ups Spark Frustration Among Fans
While optimism surrounds Le Bris’ future, Sunderland are bracing themselves for a challenging period ahead with seven players set to depart for international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Supporters have voiced their frustration over Habib Diarra’s inclusion in Senegal’s squad, particularly given his recent injury issues. The midfielder has not featured for Sunderland since the goalless draw with Crystal Palace in September, making his call-up a source of concern.
Diarra will not be the only absentee, with midfielder Noah Sadiki also heading to AFCON, adding further strain to Le Bris’ squad during a crucial stage of the season.
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