Sunderland fans are waiting eagerly to see summer signing Ian Poveda in action.
Sunderland fans have been mostly impressed by their summer signings so far.
Goalkeeper Simon Moore debuted in the Carabao Cup defeat v Preston North End and made some good saves, whilst Alan Browne has looked like an assured addition to the midfield.
But we’re still waiting to see back-up goalkeeper Blondy Nna Noukeu in action, as well as Ian Poveda.
Sunderland signed Poveda on a free transfer earlier this summer, with the Colombian penning a three-year deal following his Leeds United release during the summer.
The former Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, and Sheffield Wednesday loan man has had a turbulent few years. But fans of all three mentioned clubs were wowed by his individual ability.
On Monday, Poveda played for Sunderland U21s vs Newcastle United, showing some positive signs as Regis Le Bris awaits the attacker’s eventual return to match fitness.
Now, the Black Cats boss has discussed the role that Poveda might play for Sunderland in the 2024/25 season.
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Regis Le Bris describes Ian Poveda role at Sunderland
Speaking on Poveda, Le Bris has outlined the player’s ability to play on either flank, or even as a no.10.
It’ll make him ideal for the 4-2-3-1 formation that we’re seeing under Le Bris at Sunderland so far, and it could give Le Bris something of a positive selection headache going into the season.
Le Bris told Northern Echo: “I think he [Poveda] can play on both sides and as a No.10 as well.
“His preference is to play, then after to be available for the team.
“He’s left footed so on the right side it could be interesting but behind the striker could be very interesting as well.
“We have many opportunities with him.”
Sunderland could fill ‘utility man’ role with Ian Poveda
Every team needs a player or two who can fill in across multiple positions.
For Sunderland last season, Jobe Bellingham was that player, but he’s best in the no.10 role, and that looks like the position Le Bris wants him to play in this season.
Poveda then could come in and become a very useful asset for Le Bris, especially when rotating his side and giving certain attackers a rest.
That’ll be especially useful for a Sunderland side that are playing very fast and high-pressing football, as having rotational players like Poveda will ensure that Sunderland can keep the same intensity throughout the season.
In the past, players like Lynden Gooch and Seb Larsson have played in multiple positions, and last season Callum Styles was supposed to be that man, though he failed to impress.
Poveda could quickly become a key player for Sunderland, and fill the role of ‘utility man’ which hasn’t been properly filled in a while now, providing he can stay fit.