Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Thu 27 March 2025 19:00, UK

Alan Browne’s versatility could prove to be crucial for Sunderland as we head into the latter stages of the Championship campaign.

Just eight games remain this season, with it looking all but nailed on that Sunderland will be competing in the playoffs in May.

A top-two finish is seemingly off the cards, while it would take a drastic turnaround for the Black Cats to fall out of top six contention, though the importance of the remaining games shouldn’t be overlooked.

Regis Le Bris dropped even more injury bombshells this week ahead of the clash with Millwall, though they may be subdued through the use of Browne.

Le Bris can utilise Browne in defensive injury crisis

Dennis Cirkin was withdrawn from international duty over the past week, while the likes of Dan Ballard and Aji Alese remain sidelined.

That has left the Black Cats with one natural fullback in Trai Hume, who himself had to drop out of the Northern Ireland squad this week, though he is expected to be fit.

Instead of relying on someone like Joe Anderson, who hasn’t played a minute this season, Le Bris could turn to Browne at right back, with the Irishman having played there 16 times during his time at Preston.

Of course, it is far from the ideal scenario for the Black Cats, but it may prove to be the best option they have available in their bid to find some form and momentum to take into the playoffs.

Le Bris could take unorthodox approach v Millwall

Sunderland’s clash with Millwall is a must-win; there’s no hiding from that.

Performances as of late have not lived up to the standards expected on Wearside, and Le Bris needs to find a way to change that, albeit in difficult circumstances.

Whether he goes with Browne at right back or adopts a completely different formation is yet to be seen, but the Frenchman may need to get creative with his team selection in the absence of so many key players.