RLB ON AFCON

Regis Le Bris has full confidence in the players available to him during the AFCON period. Six senior Lads will be missing as they represent their countries: Reinildo, Talbi, Traore, Sadiki, Diarra and Masuaku. Perhaps it will be the most challenging part of Sunderland's season, but Simon Adingra's absence from the Ivory Coast squad and Romaine Mundle's return to fitness gives us some extra option and depth.

WISH THEM WELL

"First of all, we wish them the best because I think it's really important for them to play with their national teams."

GOOD POINTS CUSHION

"I think we still have a strong core in this group with great experience, good confidence at the minute, 26 points, which is useful for the next fixtures."

FRINGE PLAYERS WILL BE INVOLVED

"After that, some of the players didn't play a lot and they will have opportunities to show their qualities. I believe that we have good players right now on the bench and they will show that they can help the squad."

CLOSE TOGETHERNESS

"I think we showed our progress. I think it's not only me, it's not only one player. It's about a collective project, teamwork. I think it's one of the main strengths of this club. We are working together. The players are showing on the pitch that these connections are probably the main strength of the squad, whether in possession or out of possession. I think it's already the case. It's also the case for the club and for the different staff."