Regis Le Bris has discussed his team news ahead of Sunderland’s clash with Cardiff City.
The Sunderland head coach is preparing for his competitive debut in the dugout as the Black Cats travel to Wales.
Le Bris will be approaching two months in the job this weekend and has been tasked with reaching the play-offs after an underwhelming 16th place finish last term.
Sunderland have welcomed three new signings to Wearside as they look to bring in some experience, though Alan Browne is the only one likely to feature due to Ian Poveda’s injury.
The Colombian isn’t the only one absent either, with Le Bris being dealt a major blow last month when it was confirmed that Dan Ballard would be sidelined for up to six weeks.
That is likely to mean Aji Alese will be pushed into the middle, which isn’t too much of an issue considering his brilliant form for the club.
Sunderland set to be without defender v Cardiff
However, it now appears that Sunderland have suffered yet another injury, with Le Bris confirming one player’s absence in today’s press conference.
When asked by the media whether he had any fresh concerns, he replied: “I think we just have Leo [Hjelde] who maybe won’t be available this weekend, but the others should all be available.”
Hjelde has urged Le Bris to play him in a more central role this season and will be frustrated that his injury could prevent his opportunity from replacing the injured Ballard.
However, the 20-year-old was far from impressive last season and it would be a huge surprise if he gets much of a look-in as a start this term.
What happens to Leo Hjelde next season?
Ballard, Alese and Luke O’Nien will all be ahead of him in the pecking order, but the latter two’s injury record could give him hope that he will have a moment to shine at some point during the season.
With Dennis Cirkin also ahead of him at left-back, Hjelde has a lot to do in training to claw his way back into the picture.
If Sunderland do bring in another defensive option this summer then it would perhaps make sense to loan out Hjelde, who turns 21 years old later this month.
The ‘fantastic’ Norwegian looks like he needs regular game-time further down the league table to find his feet and also gain some confidence.