- Le Bris talks about Mayenda and his position in the squad
- Brian Brobbey has been first choice this season, and performed brilliantly
- Wilson Isidor will look elsewhere after struggling for minutes this year
Regis Le Bris has spoken about his strikers this season, and said he has warned Eliezer Mayenda to be patient.
Brian Brobbey has led the line for the Black Cats superbly this season, whilst Mayenda and Wilson Isidor have had to play second fiddle. The latter two were important figures as the club gained promotion last year.
Isidor looks set to leave the club this summer in the hope of more playing time, whilst Mayenda has been told to wait for his chance.
Regis Le Bris has said he has no doubt about the letters talent, and that his time will come. At the moment, Isidore sits above the Spaniard in the pecking order,
The 21-year-old has plenty of time on his hands, and still has things to learn. Le Bris enjoys the fact he can play as a winger and even a number 10, as well as a more traditional number nine.
Where do Isidor and Mayenda stand right now?
The Sunderland manager has said the current system is made for two strikers, and with Brobbey the number one choice. That leaves one position for two players.
Regarding the situation, Le Bris hinted that Isidor is his choice at the moment, but reiterated that his still trusts the youngster. After all, he has still made 22 appearances so far for the Black Cats.
What did Le Bris say about his forwards?
Regarding the current pecking order, the Sunderland manager said: “The best one at the minute, because it’s always a question of dynamic and evolutive, was Wilson (Isidor) and Eli (Mayenda) has to wait.”
“It doesn’t mean that I don’t trust Eli or that I don’t think that he’s a good player but this is the moments and you have to manage it.”
Although Brobbey is the undisputed main man now, the fact Isidor is seemingly one foot out the door, should give Mayenda hope.
His versatility too, means that he could become a vital part of this Sunderland side. Le Bris has spoken about only making minor changes to the squad next season, meaning opportunities are there for him to take.
Will Mayenda be at the club next season
The young forward has been an important member of the Sunderland side since his move from Sochaux in 2023. Although his time on the pitch has dropped, that’s not due to his lack of ability.
Moving from the Championship to the Premier League is a huge change, and Le Bris has allowed Mayenda to slowly get used to a stronger league.
It’s easy to assume that because he hasn’t played since the monumental win at St James’ Park that he is out of the managers thinking. But as Le Bris said, he just sees Isidor ahead of him at this moment.
But as mentioned, the Sunderland number 18 is seemingly on his way out the club. This leaves a gaping hole in the side, and it’s now up to Mayenda to fill that.
What does the future hold for Sunderlands front line?
There will be a few outgoings from the Stadium of Light this summer, with Isidor and Lutsharel Geertruida almost confirmed.
Bertrand Traore is another name mentioned as he has yet to agree to a contract extension.
Rumours have began circulating regarding a return to the club for former loanee, Amad Diallo. The Ivorian was a fan favourite as he finished top scorer in the 2022/23 season.
