One Sunderland man could be handed less opportunities following his minor contributions vs QPR.
Sunderland are gearing up for an away trip to Preston North End as they hope to get back to winning ways after a 0-0 draw against a lowly Queens Park Rangers side.
The Black Cats uncharacteristically did very little in front of goal, although they continued their streak of being solid as a rock in defence, with Chris Mepham standing out, as well as Dennis Cirkin at left-back.
Ultimately, the Jobe Bellingham red card swung the game out of Sunderland’s favour and they were unable to provide much of an attacking threat following the dismissal of the man-in-the centre-of-the-park.
One man in particular who wasn’t able to change the game from off-the-bench was Aaron Connolly, and after his recent substitution cameos, his game time could potentially seize up.
Sunderland attacker Aaron Connolly faces cut in game time after QPR showing
Sunderland signed free agent Aaron Connolly, and he has since been utilised from the bench since his return from poor fitness, and whilst he has only been given minutes at the end of games, he has still not made an impact so far.
When Le Bris’ side were calling out for a goal, the Republic of Ireland international was introduced in the 64th minute in place of Romaine Mundle, however, per SofaScore, he didn’t manage a single shot throughout his cameo, didn’t play a single pass and made just six touches of the ball, meaning it is fair to say that he was as good as non-existent on the pitch for Sunderland.
In the 76 minutes played across four substitute appearances for Sunderland, he hasn’t in fact managed a single shot.
Eliezer Mayenda return will see Aaron Connolly drop down pecking order
The Black Cats will be blessed with the return of striker Eliezer Mayenda from injury, the man who successfully led the line for Le Bris’ side until his untimely injury.
He was not utilised against Queens Park Rangers, even though he was named on the bench for the Black Cats, however, it is expected that his progression in regards to fitness in the week will see him more in contention, especially following the poor showing from Connolly, where he saw barely any of the ball.
Sunderland boss Le Bris must consider Mayenda’s fitness and not rush him back too quickly, however it is vital that he is the top choice to come off the bench when back to top fitness.