Welcome to Last Word on Football’s Sunderland round-up for Friday 21st June. Today saw the Black Cats complete their first signing of the summer and reports suggest that after four months their head coach search is coming to an end.
Sunderland Round-Up: First Signing of the Summer Arrives and Head Coach Search Set to End
Head Coach Search Coming to an End
According to Fabrizio Romano, a deal has been agreed with FC Lorient for their head coach Régis Le Bris to move to Sunderland. A work permit has now been secured, something that is more difficult in this post-Brexit era and compensation has been agreed. An official announcement from Sunderland is expected soon.
Who is Regis Le Bris?
48-year-old former midfielder Regis Le Bris is still relatively new to coaching. Before joining Sunderland, the Frenchman has managed just one club, FC Lorient. He took over Le Merlus in 2022 and took charge of 76 games. His inexperience and his stats may concern some fans. Le Bris has won just 23 of his games as a manager and last season, Lorient were relegated to Ligue 2. He did, however, guide the team to 10th in Ligue 1 in his first season.
Following the 10th-place finish with Lorient, a club with a modest budget compared to others in the same division, Le Bris was linked with a move to Leeds United before they appointed Daniel Farke.
Regis Le Bris appears to fit into Sunderland’s model of working with and developing young talent and playing attacking football. Will this be enough to make the Black Cats promotion or playoff candidates? Time will tell.
Goalkeeper Signs
Sunderland today announced their first signing of the summer. Goalkeeper Simon Moore will officially join the Black Cats on July 1st following a three-year spell at Coventry City. The 34-year-old has agreed a two-year contract.
After moving to Wearside, Moore said: “It feels fantastic to be here – when I heard Sunderland were interested, I jumped at the opportunity. I’ve been part of some very successful dressing rooms over the years, and I’d like to think I can bring that to Sunderland. I’m looking forward to getting in, meeting the rest of the lads and helping move the Club in the right direction.”
