Le Bris must change ‘incredible’ Sunderland star’s position as key transfer priority emerges
Sunderland have already recruited heavily ahead of their impending return to the Premier League.
The North East club have spent substantially, with north of £100million shelled out on new signings.
However, Sunderland secured Marc Guiu on a season-long loan, who could represent excellent value up front.
While he appears to be a solid acquisition, his arrival could budge another player, dubbed as ‘incredible’, out of position.
Regis Le Bris heaps praise on Eliezer Mayenda
Mayenda recently signed a new deal at the Stadium of Light, keeping him on Wearside for the long haul.
However, the 20-year-old is by no means a guaranteed starter this season, given the lack of goals this summer.
Mayenda missed a penalty for Sunderland as they defeated Augsburg and failed to bag a goal in pre-season.
However, the exciting forward is clearly rated highly by Regis Le Bris and his teammates, with Luke O’Nien waxing lyrical over him after scoring a stunning solo goal against Bristol City.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Championship | 37 | 8 | 5 |
| Championship play-offs | 3 | 2 | 0 |
“It’s pretty comfortably the best goal I’ve ever seen live,” the Frenchman said via Chronicle Live (21 April).
“I’d be amazed if I saw that topped. It’s not even a surprise because we’ve seen him do that in training. He’s sharp, and his temperament is incredible.”
Le Bris was referring to the superb solo goal Mayenda netted against Bristol City, and it was one of several key goals he bagged last season.
Read more: Marc Guiu v Eliezer Mayenda: Who will lead the line for Sunderland?
Why Mayenda must change position in Sunderland squad
Guiu is not the only reason why Mayenda may be forced out of position, as the Black Cats could sign more forwards amid their struggles in front of goal.
Last season, the Spaniard was played as a winger on multiple occasions, and it is a role he could thrive in next term.
The 20-year-old has the attributes to thrive out wide, with his strength, turn of pace, and ability to beat a man being valuable assets.
Of course, the likes of Simon Adingra and Chemsdine Talbi stand in his way, but Mayenda is a determined character.
- Sunderland found goals hard to come by in pre-season
- Mayenda failed to bag any, missing a penalty
- The Black Cats could sign another striker
Out of Le Bris’ options up top, Mayenda has shown he is the most versatile and a love to the wing offers him a route to minutes.
While more strikers could be on the cards, the 20-year-old has what it takes to land a starting berth.
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