Regis Le Bris could hand unexpected debut to Sunderland star vs Forest after Habib Diarra blow
Regis Le Bris has options at Sunderland for this weekend’s clash away to Nottingham Forest.
Sunderland face another huge challenge when they travel to take on Nottingham Forest this weekend, but having passed four of the last five, they will have plenty of hope.
Ahead of the game, Sunderland suffered a blow in the form of Habib Diarra, who could be out of club action until early 2026 after undergoing surgery for a groin injury.
Le Bris has options to replace him, and one of them could see him hand a full debut to one of their summer signings.
Lutsharel Geertruida could be handed midfield role at Sunderland
Le Bris made it clear that Lutsharel Geertruida was signed as a centre-back, but given the form of Nordi Mukiele at Sunderland, he has yet to be given an opportunity there.
However, the Dutch international has made two appearances from the bench for the Black Cats, albeit in the latter stages of games.
When he has featured, he’s been brought on to play in midfield, and Le Bris could unexpectedly turn to him again this weekend in the absence of Diarra.
Geertruida’s career stats prior to joining Sunderland
- Right-back – 161 appearances
- Centre-back – 115 appearances
- Defensive midfield – 20 appearances
- Left-back – 7 appearances
- Right midfield – 4 appearances
- Central midfield – 2 appearances
Chris Rigg started for Sunderland against Aston Villa, and in reality, remains the most likely option again this weekend, but it will be a tough decision to make for Le Bris.
All in all, for Sunderland to be sitting here questioning where they can fit a Dutch international in their side is a testament to the work done throughout the summer.
Sunderland’s AFCON fears are already being subdued
Of the players who played a big part in Sunderland’s draw against Villa, only Noah Sadiki will be going to AFCON.
It goes to show the depth that the Black Cats actually have in their squad, and why the fears over their ability during AFCON may have been overestimated.
With two months or so until the competition starts, players like Geertruida will be given a real chance to showcase their worth, and potentially displace the African players from the squad before they jet off to represent their countries.
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