Regis Le Bris has explained why he has refused to make multiple substitutions during the Black Cats’ winless streak.
Despite being in the promotion mix, the momentum Sunderland have built up over the season has taken a hit.
The Black Cats have fallen from the top of the Championship down to fourth after Regis Le Bris’ side drew their last five games.
While there have been few criticisms against the Frenchman so far, Le Bris’ lack of substitutions may have cost Sunderland points in the promotion race.
Now, ahead of another important clash against Sheffield United, the manager has explained his decision.
Regis Le Bris explains the lack of Sunderland substitutions
One of the more puzzling aspects of Sunderland’s five-game winless run is the lack of substitutions Le Bris has used.
Against West Brom, only two Black Cat stars came onto the pitch. This was the same vs Coventry before the international break with the Frenchman also only electing to use one at Millwall.
Given the recent dip in form, many of the Stadium of Light faithful have been confused at why the Sunderland manager has not made substitutions to try and change the game in their favour.
However, Le Bris has explained this decision has been made by him due to many players ‘not being ready’ for the Championship.
“At the minute, Luke is in the squad and doing very well,” Le Bris said.
“This is a good kind of problem for me. If we have more depth in the squad and players with a different style, we can find more solutions. So far we didn’t use our five substitutions so much and I think this is because we have had talented players who are not yet quite ready for this level of competition. In defence now we have many, many options and the level of experience is so good.
“We can manage different styles of play and create different triangles, so we can change it if we are struggling to unbalance our opponent. I hope [we can use substitutes more]. The last part of the game is very important. Here, we have so far had a strong core of 11, 12 players then younger players who are very talented but who are not yet at the same level because of their inexperience.
“The gap was a little [too] high and we of course have to accept inconsistency because they need to build this with time. It is the identity of the club to give them these opportunities and sometimes they will struggle, but if for part of the season we have 16,17 experienced players at the level then it will be different [for me]. It is the case now in defensive positions [we have more options].”
Read more: How to watch Sheffield United vs Sunderland as the Black Cats aim to end their winless run
Regis Le Bris needs to start using substitutions to change games
While the Frenchman’s points are valid, it is better to try and make a change than stick with the system in place.
Against West Brom, the hosts had few answers in trying to get through the Baggies’ backline and created few clear-cut chances.
The same can be said of many of their recent games, with three of their last five ending 0-0.
Therefore, while the players on the bench might be weaker, it is better to take a gamble that could earn you an extra two points rather than sit and hope it will happen by doing nothing.