Regis Le Bris faces tough Jenson Seelt decision after Sunderland injury boost
Sunderland fielded an unfamiliar centre-back partnership against West Ham, with Dan Ballard and Jenson Seelt side by side.
However, the duo did an outstanding job before the latter was substituted off with an injury in the 53rd minute.
Omar Alderete came on for the Dutchman and provided an assist as Sunderland humiliated West Ham in a 3-0 victory.
Now, Regis Le Bris faces a difficult decision for Bunrley after the latest news from the manager’s press conference.
Regis Le Bris confirms Jenson Seelt fit for Sunderland vs Burnley
Seelt was a regular fixture in Le Bris’ pre-season team as Florent Ghisolfi and co scoured Europe for centre-backs.
While the search discovered several dead ends, Sunderland eventually signed Alderete from Getafe for £10million.
However, it was Seelt who was handed a rare opportunity alongside Ballard, having missed the entirety of last season through injury.
The 22-year-old did a valiant job before being forced off with a back injury, but he is available to face Burnley at Turf Moor.
“He’s good, he’s good, no problem,” said Le Bris on 21 August when asked about Seelt’s fitness.
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Omar Alderete likely to replace Jenson Seelt for Burnley clash
While Seelt did an admirable job, especially given his lack of first-team football, there is no need to risk him against the Clarets.
There was every chance that the Dutchman was going to leave Wearside this summer, but he may have played himself into Le Bris’ plans.
However, Alderete is now primed to make his mark for the Black Cats, having supplied Eliezer Mayenda with a superb assist.
Although Scott Parker’s side were heavily defeated on the opening day, they will be a different beast on home soil.
Furthermore, given their tough run of fixtures, they will know they must get a result against Le Bris’ men.
- Seelt started against West Ham, but went off injured
- With him now fit, Le Bris must choose between him and Alderete
- Burnley cannot be underestimated at Turf Moor
Alderete will bring physicality, aerial dominance, and defensive experience that could be crucial against a team like Burnley.
The Paraguayan’s aerial threat could also come in handy in the opposition’s box after Sunderland were aerially dominant over the Hammers.
Despite Seelt being alright, it makes perfect sense to blood Alderete against a team desperate for points.
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