Regis Le Bris Keeps Faith With Unchanged Sunderland Side Against Everton

Regis Le Bris has once again placed his trust in the same Sunderland starting eleven that triumphed 2-1 at Chelsea last weekend, as the Black Cats prepare to face Everton at the Stadium of Light. The Frenchman’s decision to keep faith with an unchanged side comes as Sunderland aim to secure a victory that would see them rise to second place in the Premier League table.

That continuity means Lutsharel Geertruida retains his place in the line-up, having impressed on his full debut at Stamford Bridge. The RB Leipzig loanee slotted seamlessly into a five-man defensive system against Chelsea, and while there have been suggestions he could be pushed into midfield against Everton, expectations are that Sunderland will once again start with a back five.

Bertrand Traoré and Enzo Le Fée are set to continue occupying the wide roles, giving Sunderland both width and attacking balance. Their inclusion means Chemsdine Talbi remains among the substitutes, despite his memorable stoppage-time winner in West London last weekend. Le Bris is clearly keen to reward consistency and cohesion over sentiment, maintaining a settled side as Sunderland chase further momentum.

There is, however, no place for Omar Alderete, who remains sidelined after missing the Chelsea clash due to concussion. His continued absence leaves Dan Ballard and Nordi Mukiele partnered in central defence, supported by Geertruida and Reinildo on the flanks.

Sunderland’s shape and tactical discipline have been key to their recent form, and Le Bris will be hoping for another composed display against an Everton side looking to climb away from mid-table.

SUNDERLAND (5-2-3): Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Ballard, Geertruida, Reinildo; Xhaka, Sadiki; Traoré, Isidor, Le Fée.

Subs: Patterson, Neil, O’Nien, Talbi, Rigg, Brobbey, Mayenda, Adingra, Masuaku.

EVERTON (4-2-3-1): Pickford; O’Brien, Tarkowski, Keane, Mykolenko; Gueye, Garner; Ndiaye, Dewsbury-Hall, Grealish; Barry.

Subs: Travers, Aznou, Coleman, Iroegbunam, Dibling, Rohl, Alcaraz, McNeil, Beto.