Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has spoken very highly of Tommy Watson. But there’s a ‘concern’ for the Frenchman with regards to Watson.
Tommy Watson has finally broken into the Sunderland first-team and into the starting XI, albeit having seen his run of games come to an end after being ruled out for two months through injury.
Watson bagged his first Sunderland goals in the 2-1 win against Stoke City earlier in the month, then picking up his injury in the following game against Bristol City.
For the last outing, Le Bris was forced to deploy Eliezer Mayenda on the left flank with Romaine Mundle and Watson both sidelined, though Sunderland stunned Swansea City in a 3-2 comeback win on the day.
Watson won’t be returning to action until the New Year. But he’s certainly given Le Bris some food for though, especially so with Mundle soon to return to the fold as well.
Regis Le Bris’ main concern for Tommy Watson at Sunderland
Speaking to Sky Sports pundit Simeon Gholam, Le Bris has discussed Watson’s emergence and his recent performances.
But the Black Cats boss also highlighted a potential cause for concern where the 18-year-old academy graduate is concerned.
Le Bris said: “I’m confident and I trust Tommy, but it’s still difficult to anticipate the future.
“My main concern is to be focused on this improvement. The improvement of the team. His connection with the team. And if he’s connected with his potential it will help us.”
Watson has followed in the footsteps of fellow academy graduate Chris Rigg in becoming first-team regulars for Sunderland.
But ahead of the January transfer window, it’s been reported that Watson has Premier League interest from the likes of Nottingham Forest and Brighton.
When will Romaine Mundle return for Sunderland?
With neither Watson nor Mundle available right now, Le Bris has a bit of a void on the left-side with Mayenda having proved that he’s better off as a striker than a left winger so far.
Mundle though should return much sooner than Watson. It’s thought that former Spurs gem Mundle could return before the New Year after previously being sidelined for up to eight weeks back in November.
When Mundle returns, he’ll have to put in some good performances to ensure that he keeps his spot in the XI, knowing that Watson will return hots on his heels.