Sunderland fans have enjoyed the opportunity to take a further look at their squad ahead of next week’s season opener.
Sunderland have played out six preseason friendlies so far, picking up three wins, one draw and two defeats.
The Black Cats still have one final fixture against Marseille this weekend, though Regis Le Bris is likely to already have a good understanding of who could line up against Cardiff City.
A number of players have given themselves a brilliant chance at starting in Wales, with Chris Rigg and Romaine Mundle two names that have impressed in recent weeks.
However, others have struggled, with Timothee Pembele likely to be one player that has put himself out of the running.
Trai Hume was always going to be one of the first names on the team-sheet, however his back-up’s performances may now have forced Le Bris into considering replacing him in the transfer market.
Pembele arrived from Paris Saint-Germain last summer with high hopes, but rarely featured due to Hume’s form.
The Frenchman did start three of their final five games last term, but his display against Bradford City won’t have done him any favours.
Pembele’s performances have already been described as ‘shaky’ and ‘difficult’ this season, with many supporters criticising him during the 2-1 defeat to Bradford last night.
Sunderland fans react to Pembele nightmare
What happens to Pembele now?
Pembele was always going to have a huge challenge ahead of him if he wanted to replace Hume, but it seemed likely that he would be the man to take the starting role if his teammate left this summer.
There is still the possibility of Hume being sold, but very little promise that Pembele can fill his boots.
Whether the Northern Ireland international leaves or not, it seems very clear that Pembele isn’t suited for Championship football or maybe even English football at all.
It seems like Sunderland are sticking with four defenders next season and he clearly isn’t capable of playing in a more defensive position.
The Black Cats don’t need a right midfielder either, so it’s hard to see where he would fit in.
It hasn’t worked out for him on Wearside and perhaps he should return to Europe, while Sunderland desperately need to bring in a competent back-up for Hume.