Match Coverage

Two things Regis Le Bris is ‘pleased’ with despite Sunderland’s 1-0 defeat to Stoke City, one involves Black Cats ‘away end’

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Sunderland’s recent run of good form came to an end in disappointing fashion as the Black Cats fell to a 1-0 defeat against Stoke City.

After five games unbeaten, Sunderland had got themselves firmly back in the title race in the Championship.

However, despite all their attempts on goal on Sunday, Sunderland could not find a breakthrough against Stoke City, and lost the game in the dying moments.

Regis Le Bris is not too concerned, though, and despite some poor player ratings for Sunderland against Stoke, the Sunderland boss found reason to be positive.

Stoke City FC v Sunderland AFC - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images

Le Bris has no fresh injury concerns, and some of the best supporters in the league

James Copley took to Twitter/X to share some of the post-match comments from the Sunderland manager, and revealed why the Frenchman was in an upbeat mood, all things considered.

First of all, Le Bris discussed the injury status of his Sunderland squad, and was “pleased” to reveal that no more players have been added to the list of medical issues after the Stoke City defeat.

With Chris Rigg taking steps to recovery, it was important for the Black Cats to avoid any further absences, especially with another game just two days away.

Secondly, Le Bris celebrated the level of support from the Sunderland fans in the “away end”, and insisted the fans were appreciative of how many chances the team created at the Bet365 Stadium.

Of course, the major issue now is that the Black Cats need to start putting the ball in the back of the net when they have these chances.

Stoke City FC v Sunderland AFC - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Malcolm Couzens/Getty Images

Sunderland need to bounce back, and fast, as Sheffield United up next

Sunderland had better pick themselves up and get back to their best quickly, as fellow promotion-chasers, Sheffield United, are up next.

The Black Cats will be hoping to maintain their unbeaten record at the Stadium of Light when the Blades arrive on Wednesday.

  • Championship
    • Stoke CityStoke City

      SunderlandSunderland

  • Championship
    • SunderlandSunderland

      Sheff UtdSheffield Utd

  • Championship
    • SunderlandSunderland

      PortsmouthPortsmouth

Sunderland suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat the last time they faced Chris Wilder’s side, but with improved performances of late, plus home advantage, this will be a far better test of Le Bris’ side and their promotion credentials.