Régis Le Bris
Sunderland manager is facing a challenging decision regarding the potential departure of forward Wilson Isidor during the current transfer window. Reports have surfaced suggesting that the Blues have expressed interest in acquiring Isidor, who has found himself lower in the pecking order at the Stadium of Light. Despite contributing to Sunderland’s promotion last season and scoring four goals in 21 appearances this term, Isidor has not started a match since the team’s 3-0 defeat against Manchester City in December.
Le Bris said: “He’s a really good player, important for us, did really well in the past and for sure in the future as well. We still have momentum and I think for Sunderland at the minute it’s really positive to have Brian in good form and two strikers, Eli and Wilson, ready to go. It’s normal to have some difficult periods because they are still young, new in the league. So I don’t know if it’s possible to sustain the level for a whole season in this league, so it’s just normal to have different periods.”
The manager added: “Yes, sure [he is frustrated at the moment], which I think is acceptable, it’s not new in professional life. We are here to support him, to challenge him, so now the connection is really good, really positive, really open, so I can explain what I expect from him, he can give me feedback about the set-up, what he finds difficult to get better, so I think this connection is really positive, even if he struggles a bit at the minute.”
When asked if Sunderland would require a replacement to let Isidor depart, Le Bris said: “That’s a good question which I don’t want to answer. It’s important, I repeat, from my experience, to have two strikers. Then one a bit more versatile, because it was the case in League One, it’s the case even more in the Premier League … it’s so demanding for only one player you can sustain the level, because of the physicality, because of the strength of the opponents, so you need two to sustain the level. And one more versatile is always useful. So, our set-up at the minute is perfect.”
The situation presents a complex scenario for Sunderland, as they weigh the benefits of retaining Isidor against the potential need for a replacement should he depart. The manager’s comments highlight the importance of squad depth, particularly in the demanding environment of the Premier League. Isidor’s frustration over limited playing time is understandable, yet the club’s current set-up with multiple strikers in form suggests a strategic approach to maintaining competitiveness. The decision on Isidor’s future will likely hinge on the availability of a suitable replacement, ensuring the team remains equipped to handle the rigors of top-flight football.
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