Sunderland are expected to approve a considerable number of player exits during this summer’s transfer window.
Head coach Régis Le Bris has made it clear that the squad will be informed early on whether they are part of his plans for the upcoming Premier League season. The Black Cats have already made a strong start to their recruitment efforts, securing six new signings ahead of their pre-season tour to Portugal. Only Habib Diarra featured in their opening 4-0 pre-season win over South Shields, with injuries in defence giving several fringe players a chance to feature.
Le Bris explained that the initial two weeks of pre-season are being used to help players build fitness and stake their claim for a role in the coming campaign, but warned that decisions will be made swiftly after the Portugal trip.
“We’ll evaluate each player,” Le Bris said. “I’ve told them the first two weeks are about creating connections. After that, we need to be decisive. Some need regular minutes, and if they can’t get them here in the Premier League, then there’s no reason for them to stay. We’ll make those calls early.”
Among those under review is Nectar Triantis, who returned from a strong loan spell at Hibernian. While the Scottish side are keen to re-sign him, the 22-year-old is eager to find out if he’s in Sunderland’s plans first.
“He had a good season on loan,” Le Bris said. “Now, like everyone, he’ll be assessed over these two weeks so we can decide where he stands.”
Le Bris also confirmed that several senior players who featured in the 2-2 friendly against Gateshead at Hebburn Town are on the way out. That group included Joe Anderson, Ian Poveda, Nazariy Rusyn, Abdoullah Ba, Jay Matete, and Luis Hemir — most of whom played alongside academy prospects.
“Yes, they are available to leave,” said Le Bris. “We split the squad to ensure players who need game time could get it. Now we’ll continue evaluating the rest of the group and make further decisions.”
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