Regis Le Bris has defended one big Sunderland error in the 2-1 defeat against Watford.
Sunderland were unable to build on their win last weekend against Middlesbrough as they lost out to Watford on their travels.
Regis Le Bris’ side looked a shadow of their former selves and only will have themselves to blame after being undone by the Hornets.
There are several player to point the blame at in regards to the defeat at Vicarage Road, and the midfield most certainly didn’t turn up, despite such a brilliant start to the season.
Jobe Bellingham in particular struggled for Sunderland on their travels, as did Dan Neil, who gave away a decisive penalty that saw Watford regain their lead following a goal from Wilson Isidor.
There is one moment in particular during the game that Le Bris was undoubtedly expecting to be quizzed over, however he has defended the actions of one of his players after such a crucial mistake in the game.
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris defends Dan Neil after giving away penalty
Whilst Le Bris’ side were undeserving of coming away with any points from Vicarage Road, they looked to be close to bagging what would have been a solid point on the road.
However, a challenge from Neil inside the box saw Watford awarded a penalty, which was converted and as a result was the key difference between Sunderland coming back from the south with any points.
Le Bris has been asked about the situation, however he has defended the midfielder, where he said, via Sunderland Echo: “It is football, mistakes happen.
“I cannot say we lose the game because of Dan, it is not the truth. I haven’t seen the clip back but I’m sure that he should have more support, it was a long, long 1-v-1 situation.
“When we analyse that situation I know that I will find many reasons to explain why it happened, with other players as well.
“We know there will be reactions after the game but Dan can play very [well] in this position. The second player for this position is Salis [Abdul Samed] but right now he is not available.
“Dan played well in the first game of the season, today there is a mistake but he has made a good start.”
Sunderland defeat has raised serious squad concern
As Le Bris said when quizzed about the Neil situation that has stirred up plenty of debate from Sunderland fans, he would usually look to consider alternative options to fill out the centre-of-the-park.
He mentioned that Salis Abdul Samed is an option and could be utilised if he was fit, however there are no other alternatives that he can turn to as a result of Alan Browne also not being available.
It is a major issue that Le Bris’ side have found out that squad depth in the side is far from perfect, and in most cases, all three of the Sunderland midfielders would be looking over their shoulders at the other midfield options who they could be replaced with.
It is far from a great situation for Sunderland, and Le Bris must at this point focus on getting his midfielders back up to speed and ensure the Watford defeat is merely a blip, otherwise he will be left with a key issue.