Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has made it clear that there will be no fixed pecking order among his strikers this season, emphasizing that each of his frontmen has a vital role to play in the club’s Premier League campaign. With Eliezer Mayenda, Wilson Isidor, and new signing Brian Brobbey all vying for the starting spot, Le Bris is embracing a flexible approach to squad selection.
⚽ Mayenda Still Trusted Despite Mixed Start
Eliezer Mayenda began the season as Sunderland’s first-choice striker, scoring in the opening day win over West Ham. However, he missed a golden opportunity against Burnley and failed to find the net against Brentford — though Sunderland still secured a dramatic 2–1 victory.
Le Bris remains fully supportive of the 20-year-old, urging fans to stay patient and back the young forward.
“I’m confident, yes, 100 per cent,” Le Bris said. “It won’t be linear… Sometimes he will be confident, he can close his eyes and score, and it will be more difficult maybe sometimes. Just support him and trust him.”
🚀 Isidor Stakes His Claim
Wilson Isidor has made a strong case for more minutes after scoring a last-gasp winner against Brentford — his second goal of the season, having also netted against West Ham. The French striker’s impact off the bench has added a new layer of competition to Sunderland’s attacking options.
Le Bris praised Isidor’s contributions but stopped short of declaring a new first-choice striker.
“We have two or three options in this position, so is it really important?” he said, downplaying the idea of a rigid hierarchy.
💰 Brobbey Joins the Mix
Sunderland’s deadline-day signing of Brian Brobbey from Ajax for over £17 million further intensifies the battle for the No. 9 role. The 23-year-old arrives with pedigree and power, and fans are eager to see how he fits into Le Bris’ system.
With three distinct profiles leading the line — Mayenda’s pace and movement, Isidor’s poise and finishing, and Brobbey’s physicality — Le Bris has the luxury of tailoring his attack to suit different opponents.
🔮 Looking Ahead to Crystal Palace
As Sunderland prepare to face Crystal Palace this weekend, Le Bris must decide who leads the line at Selhurst Park. But his comments suggest that the decision will be based on tactical needs rather than form alone.
“A striker… can make mistakes, or sometimes the goalkeeper can make a big save as well. Stay confident, support him, and I think it will be okay.”
With six points from their first three matches, Sunderland have made a promising start to life back in the Premier League. And with a trio of strikers ready to contribute, Le Bris is keeping his options open — and his squad united.