Sunderland picked up another three points against Portsmouth this weekend, but one expert has told Regis Le Bris he needs to make a big change for the next game.
After a brilliant and very important win over promotion rivals Sheffield United on New Year’s Day, Sunderland continued their winning ways with a 1-0 victory at the Stadium of Light on Sunday afternoon.
Regis Le Bris’ men maintained their unbeaten home record this season, although the scoreline could and should have been higher, all things considered.
Still, while Le Bris’ tactical decisions paid off there, he has been warned things need to be different next time out.
Sunderland players need a rest for FA Cup game vs Stoke City
Portsmouth played the game with ten-men for around 30 minutes of the second half, but Sunderland were unable to assert their dominance and extend the scoreline. In fact, the dying moments were all Portsmouth, with the away side threatening to find an equaliser.
Taking to Twitter/X after the game, James Copley suggested the win should have been a lot easier, and suggested Le Bris now needs to rest some players in the Sunderland squad for the upcoming FA Cup tie with Stoke City.
Copley wrote: “Job done but shouldn’t have been that nervy. Sunderland should have put that to bed against 10-man Portsmouth.
“Happy with the three points. Some of these lads need resting against Stoke City in the FA Cup. Hopefully, they will be.”
Sunderland’s next fixture sees them host Stoke in the FA Cup third round on Saturday, January 11. This will be third time they have played the Potters in the last month.
Rotated lineup vs Stoke could be a blessing in disguise
Resting players for the FA Cup game could actually be a win-win for Le Bris, and there are plenty of Sunderland youngsters waiting for their chance.
Trey Ogunsuyi is an obvious one who appears to be on the cusp of a breakthrough after his goalscoring achievements in the youth squad. The likes of Harrison Jones and Zak Johnson could also benefit from minutes in the senior side.
Meanwhile, we could finally see Salis Abdul Samed make his first appearance for the Black Cats. The Sunderland summer signing has been injured all season but is close to full fitness.
So, with promotion the key target this season, there can be no harm in Le Bris resting his top players, and giving valuable game time to his fringe players in this game.