Sunderland have lost Mike Dodds who’s set out on his own managerial venture with Wycombe Wanderers. As the reaction has suggested, it’s a big blow for the Black Cats.
Luke O’Nien’s message to Mike Dodds summed up just how important a member of staff he was at Sunderland, with stalwart defender O’Nien going into detail about how Dodds had such a positive impact behind the scenes.
In the middle of a promotion push, losing such an influence is not ideal for Regis Le Bris. His side have been gaining momentum in recent weeks with their last outing being a really positive 3-2 win away at Middlesbrough.
Changing or losing part of a winning formula could spell danger in the coming weeks. Many are wondering whether or not the Black Cats will look to replace Dodds, though Le Bris has played down that possibility for the time being.
Regis Le Bris’ plan for Sunderland after Mike Dodds leaves for Wycombe Wanderers
Speaking to The Northern Echo, Le Bris has revealed a rather cunning and somewhat daring plan for his youthful Sunderland side. He wants the players to step up in the absence of Dodds and start making tactical decisions amongst themselves.
Le Bris explained: “Now, with the way we wanted to build this team, it is important to trust the players and pass on some responsibility to them. They have the right culture now, and are ready to execute some of the tasks by themselves.
“When we are thinking about the way we want to build our game model, we want to give the players the possibility to choose some things for themselves.
“They need to be making decisions on the pitch, and now, after seven months of working with us, that should be easier for them. I hope we will create new conditions where they can take responsibility.”
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Regis Le Bris knows who to count on after Mike Dodds exit
Unlike last season, there’s some real leaders in the side, and much more experience too. Even the club’s youngsters like Jobe Bellingham has 100 career appearances to his name.
But Le Bris’ comments may lean towards players like O’Nien really stepping up. Already a voice on and off the pitch, O’Nien could soon become Dodds’ voice on the pitch, given Le Bris’ latest demands of the players.
Not only O’Nien, but others like Dan Neil in midfield and the returning Alan Browne, Patrick Roberts is also a player with bags of experience. Losing Dodds is certainly not ideal but Sunderland may already have the tools to cope without him.