Jones sends message to Le Bris after impressive Sunderland playoff audition
Harrison Jones has given Regis Le Bris somewhat of a selection headache ahead of the final two games of the season.
Sunderland suffered yet another defeat on Easter Monday, this time at the hands of Blackburn Rovers, who secured a 1-0 victory, keeping their own playoff ambitions alive for now.
However, it is evident that the Black Cats have essentially written off the remainder of the season, and for good reason, too.
Everyone of a Wearside persuasion will remember the last time when Sunderland were involved in the playoffs and fell to a defeat against Luton Town with the likes of Lynden Gooch and Patrick Roberts playing in the back four.
In order to prevent that from happening again, Le Bris has rotated his side heavily, and in turn, that has given Jones a chance to showcase what he has to offer, and against Blackburn, he did just that.
Le Bris could turn to Jones in Championship playoffs
Jones made his first-team debut earlier this season and has been a mainstay in the matchday squad ever since, though mainly due to the lack of options with injuries.
However, he was named in the starting 11 against Blackburn, and his display served as a showcase that he could have a part to play in the playoffs.
Via FotMob, the 20-year-old completed 87 per cent of his 30 attempted passes in the game, while also completing his only attempted dribble.
| Sunderland v Blackburn | Goals | Shots | xG | Possession |
| Sunderland | 0 | 16 | 0.81 | 58% |
| Blackburn | 1 | 2 | 0.29 | 42% |
The youngster showed a level of maturity in his game, and his three created chances were the highest of anyone on the pitch.
Jones recorded a 100 per cent long ball accuracy while winning five of his seven defensive duels in the 64 minutes he was on the pitch.
With the likes of Jobe Bellingham and Enzo Le Fee almost guaranteed to start in the playoffs, it is unlikely he will be afforded much gametime, but Le Bris could certainly utilise him as an option after a statement display.
Sunderland must enter playoff mode now
Le Bris has rotated his squad heavily ever since it became apparent that a top-two finish was off the cards, though with two games remaining, that needs to change now.
Sunderland need to have a real go with their best XI against Oxford and QPR, and bring some confidence back to Wearside ahead of the playoffs.