Régis Le Bris makes Malick Fofana prediction and explains Romanie Mundle and Chemsdine Talbi situations
Régis Le Bris assessed Malick Fofana’s Sunderland debut and provided updates on Romaine Mundle and Chemsdine Talbi.
Régis Le Bris believes Malick Fofana has the personality required to excite Sunderland supporters after the deadline-day signing made his debut during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Brentford.
Fofana was introduced with just under 15 minutes remaining at the Gtech Community Stadium, replacing Noah Sadiki and operating from the left. It was the Belgian winger’s first appearance since completing his move from Lyon.
The 21-year-old had limited time to influence a tight contest, but showed glimpses of his willingness to receive the ball under pressure and attack his opponent. Le Bris believes that confidence is an essential quality for players operating in wide areas.
“The wingers are a bit special. They need a specific character, and we feel this confidence with Malick,” Le Bris said. “It was the case with Nilson, to be fair, as well, which is good. You feed them, you give them the ball, and you feel that they face the pressure. You think that something will happen here. They have to have this confidence and the ability to deliver as well. He showed these two qualities today. I hope it’s going to be really positive for him with us.”
Fofana could now be handed his first Sunderland start when Hull City visit the Stadium of Light in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night. Le Bris has indicated he plans to make as many as nine or ten changes as he manages his squad through a demanding run of fixtures.
Régis Le Bris confirms Romaine Mundle injury
While Fofana made his debut off the bench, fellow winger Romaine Mundle was missing from Sunderland’s matchday squad at Brentford. Le Bris confirmed after the game that Mundle had suffered an injury, but the Sunderland head coach would not be drawn on the nature of the issue or a possible recovery timeframe. “We’ll communicate on his injury next week,” Le Bris said.
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Mundle’s setback comes after he missed parts of last season with hamstring problems. Sunderland are already without Habib Diarra, who faces between six and eight weeks on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury during the victory over Fulham. Fofana’s arrival adds another option on the left side of Sunderland’s attack, while Nilson Angulo produced arguably his best half since joining the club during the opening 45 minutes against Brentford.
Chemsdine Talbi transfer talks remain ongoing
Chemsdine Talbi was also absent from Sunderland’s squad amid continued uncertainty surrounding his future. Asked directly whether Talbi had been left out because he could still depart the Stadium of Light, Le Bris confirmed that a move remained possible. He did not elaborate on the talks or the winger’s likely destination. “Yes. For Chemsdine, a move remains possible, so we decided to avoid unnecessary risks,” Le Bris said.
Sunderland opted against including Talbi in their Europa League squad while discussions over a potential move continued. The club did not want to risk losing a place on their European list if he was named and subsequently left. The transfer window has closed in England, but Talbi can still join a club in a country where the market remains open.