Le Bris is the real deal, say Sunderland chiefs

Sunderland bosses say Régis Le Bris’ contract extension will boost their Premier League survival hopes.

The French coach has signed a new three-year deal to stay at the Stadium of Light as reward for last season’s promotion to the top flight.

Under French owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, the Wearside club have added eight players to their squad since their May play-off triumph over Sheffield United, and announced Le Bris’ new deal earlier this week.

And Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said the new contract was reward for the former Lorient coach’s “outstanding” first year at the club. 

Speakman said: “Like every Sunderland supporter, I’m delighted we are announcing this contract extension for Régis. 

“It provides clarity going into the Premier League season, but more importantly it recognises his contribution and continued commitment to the club. 

“Régis has an unrelenting desire for progression that matches our own and we look forward to continuing our partnership throughout the upcoming season, as we move forward with aligned objectives that reflect our shared ambition.”

The club’s new director of football Florent Ghisolfi added: “Regis’ new contract is a mark of recognition for the outstanding work he’s undertaken since arriving at Sunderland, and more importantly, it reflects our trust in the future we’re building together. 

“Our objective is to establish Sunderland as a Premier League Club – not just in name, but in identity, performance, and ambition – and Regis is an important part of that vision. 

“He shares our desire, and we are ready to face the challenges and opportunities ahead with conviction and purpose.”

Le Bris joined as head coach Sunderland last summer and won nine of their first 12 games, winning the EFL Championship manager of the month in August and October. 

They finished fourth in the division, beating Coventry over two legs in the play-off semi-finals, before Tommy Watson’s late goal secured victory over Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United at Wembley in May.

Since then, Wearside teenager Watson has left for Brighton and young star Jobe Bellingham secured a £27 million move to Borussia Dortmund – while Sunderland have twice broken their club transfer record with the acquisitions of former Lorient star Enzo Le Fée from Roma, and Habib Diarra from Strasbourg.

The Stadium of Light has also undergone a summer makeover ahead of the season kick-off against West Ham United on August 16.

Le Bris added: “The connection I have with the staff, players and supporters has been natural and we shared many great moments together.

“The collective ambition is there to see and now, there is a desire to become stronger. 

“I can feel the energy and intent to push forward, and we need that in the next challenges we will face.

“In every part of the organisation, everyone has their own apart to play, and we are all aligned.”

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