Regis Le Bris makes Championship promise to Sunderland youngsters
Regis Le Bris has emphasised there will be opportunities for the Under-21 youngsters at Sunderland to play in the Championship.
Tommy Watson again got a short runout against Watford last weekend following an impressive pre-season, while Harrison Jones, Zak Johnson, Ben Cromption, Trey Ogunsuyi and Timur Tutierov have all featured on the bench since Le Bris’ arrival.
The head coach insisted the “identity of the club” is entrusted with chances for the fledgling players to perform in a demanding Championship season.
Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle’s Nick Barnes on Total Sport [30 September], Le Bris said: “During this season, these players will get opportunities to play.
“This is the identity of the club. When we have the chance to give them new experiences, minutes to understand the rhythm and show their qualities as well, we will do it.
“We trust the identity of the club, we trust the players, and we will do this with huge confidence.”
Sunderland take pride in youngsters’ pathway
Sunderland have made headlines in recent years for their approach with young players.
It has escalated even further with the appointment of Le Bris. However, as beforehand it would tend to be teenage talents like Jobe Bellingham brought in from elsewhere who would be drafted straight into the first-team squad – with the exception of Chris Rigg and, to an extent, Watson.
However, now the Black Cats who have been grafting away in Graeme Murty’s Under-21s – performing out of their skin to reach the Premier League 2 play-off final last season – are getting the nod.
Le Bris has been ruthless with the players he appears to prefer and not favour, and has been bold in drafting several youngsters into the first-team squad, even if just for the matchday experience.
Tuesday night’s (1 October) contest against Derby County will be an interesting one selection-wise, due to the fact the U21s play at the same time against Lyon in their International Cup group stage-match at Eppleton while the senior side take on the Rams at the Stadium of Light.
Beyond that, though, those who impress at age-grade level have been promised their opportunities will come at senior level with time.
In other Sunderland news, Dan Neil owns his costly error against Watford.
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