Credit: Imago

Carla Devine

Sun 13 April 2025 19:28, UK

Sunderland fell to a 1-0 defeat against Swansea City on Saturday, but luckily for Regis Le Bris, a top-six finish has been guaranteed already.

With four games left to be played in the Championship this term, the boss will be eager for his side to fix their form in the hope of going into the play-offs with momentum.

Nevertheless, minutes must be managed too and Le Bris seems to be well aware of that, having handed Harrison Jones his first start of the season.

Jones ready for Sunderland loan exit

Jones has spent the majority of the season sitting on the bench, having made just two appearances before his start against Swansea.

The fact that the boss felt it was appropriate to give the 20-year-old a run out speaks volumes about the levels he is at, still at a young age.

However, looking forward, the Black Cats need to be thinking about the summer transfer window and how they can get the best out of their youngster.

Although Sunderland are yet to know their fate for next season, they will either be playing in the top flight or fighting at the top of the Championship again.

With that in mind, it must leave questions in the manager’s mind of whether there will be much for Jones to do in the squad and, at this stage, that feels unlikely.

Therefore, although the Black Cats will be keen on strengthening their side in the summer, they must also be prepared to think about how best to push their talent in the right direction meaning a loan deal for Jones would be ideal.

Only then will he likely follow in the path of the likes of Chris Rigg, who appear to be miles ahead.

Jones can have Sunderland future

While a move away may feel disappointing, having an opportunity arise at the end of this season, getting minutes and building up the strength to play regularly has to be important for Jones, rather than just sitting on the bench.

The attacking midfielder has produced some strong numbers in Premier League 2, proving he certainly knows where the goal is and what he needs to do to add to his tally.

Nevertheless, it seems unlikely that he will be anywhere near a first choice for a side with the ambitions of the Black Cats next term.

Tommy Watson is set to leave the Stadium of Light in the summer, while Rigg and Dan Ballard are also linked with moves away, highlighting the opportunity there is for young talent to develop in the North East.

Sunderland need to think about this one as a future project, though, and it’s hard to see how progress won’t stagnate if Jones stays put next term.