Régis Le Bris
Sunderland AFC is set to face Hearts of Midlothian in a pre-season friendly at Tynecastle this Saturday afternoon. This match marks Sunderland’s fourth pre-season fixture and serves as a significant preparation for their upcoming season opener against West Ham United, which is just three weeks away. The game also celebrates the career of former Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, as the Edinburgh club honors him at the start of his testimonial year.
Régis Le Bris said: “We knew when we planned these first weeks that we would start with 45,45. We knew this would give everyone this opportunity. Now we will start progressively to reduce the game time for some players so that we can prepare the core of the group for the season.”
Craig Gordon said: “I have many great memories of my time in the Premier League. My debut win against Tottenham at the Stadium of Light. Our 1-0 win against Liverpool, thanks to a beach ball, and our 0-3 win at Stamford Bridge against a Chelsea team that was top of the league at the time. So many brilliant games, and the atmosphere at The Stadium of Light, wow! I’m so happy you are back where you belong now – and look forward to watching you this season. Ha’way the Lads!”
This match is crucial for Sunderland as they aim to fine-tune their squad ahead of the new season. Manager Régis Le Bris has indicated a shift in strategy, moving away from playing different XIs in each half to gradually building the core group for the season. Players like Anthony Patterson, Chris Rigg, and Wilson Isidor are doubtful due to minor injuries, but there is hope that at least one of them will feature in the match.
The Sunderland squad for the match includes Moore, Hume, Ballard, Seelt, Huggins, Sadiki, Neil, Le Fee, Talbi, Adingra, and Mayenda, with several substitutes ready to make an impact. Notably, Nectar Triantis is absent from the squad, and further updates are expected post-match.
The game also highlights the emotional connection between Craig Gordon and both clubs, as he is celebrated for his contributions to Sunderland and his legendary status at Hearts. The match began with a guard of honor for Gordon, underscoring the respect and admiration he commands from both teams.
As the match progresses, Sunderland is expected to take control of the ball, with Hearts showing intent to press. The game promises to be a fitting tribute to Craig Gordon and a vital step in Sunderland’s pre-season preparations.
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