Sunderland manager Regis le Bris addressed the media ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, scheduled for a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
You can listen to Le Bris’ media briefing here, or read the highlights from his press conference:
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Le Bris condemned the racial abuse directed at Romaine Mundle, calling it “unacceptable” and reaffirmed the club’s support for him during this challenging time. He emphasized, “There is no place for racism or abuse in football. Our values are centered around respect and inclusion, which are integral to football and our club.”
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Captain Granit Xhaka could potentially be included in the starting lineup, having come off the bench in Sunderland’s 3-1 loss to Fulham.
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Mundle and Jocelin Ta Bi are expected to be sidelined for “a few weeks or months” due to injuries sustained against the Cottagers.
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However, Le Bris indicated that Nordi Mukiele and Brian Brobbey might have a “shorter” recovery time depending on their response to treatment and rehabilitation.
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Defender Dennis Cirkin will be ready to return to action for Sunderland in about 10 days, while forward Bertrand Traore has resumed “full training this week”.
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Sunderland has faced three consecutive defeats in the Premier League, but Le Bris noted that “it is part of the process” as they navigate their return to the top division.
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He elaborated, stating: “We are competing in a challenging league with a young squad facing injuries, suspensions, and various challenges. We anticipated this early in the season. Results haven’t been ideal, but we are gaining valuable experience and learning, especially during these tough times.”
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Regarding other teams targeting Sunderland’s talent, he remarked, “That will be a different part of our journey later on. Currently, our primary focus is not on that.”