Regis Le Bris claims Sunderland duo could one day play at 'highest level'
The Sunderland boss has been discussing the potential of his young squad.
Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has claimed that there are members of his squad on Wearside who have the potential to go on and play at the “highest level” - with Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg name-checked directly by the Stadium of Light chief.
The Black Cats have enjoyed a hugely positive start to life under the Frenchman, and are currently top of the Championship after the third international break of the season. Much of that early success has been built on the influence of a crop of promising young talents, including teenagers Bellingham and Rigg, who have both been linked with interest from high-profile clubs in recent weeks.
And in Le Bris’ estimations, the pair are among a group of Sunderland stars who could one day feature in the upper echelons of the continental game. In an interview with The Sun, he said: “The players are good - very good. I have worked with many, many players that have worked at the highest level. It is always a question of potential. We think that they could play at the highest level, Premier League or Champions League. But the question between the potential and reality is down to the pathway.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
“I don’t think you can assess the reality of the size of Sunderland before being at Sunderland. I’m very confident for them but it’s still fragile. Yet their behaviours, for example Jobe, Riggy and other players, it’s very interesting their potential and qualities and the way they are managing this relationship with the game.
“If you can keep this relationship with the game then you can exploit your potential. If the environment around the football becomes more important then it will be more difficult. I’m just a part of their journey, really. If I can help them to grow, and if they can help us to grow as a club, then that’s a good connection. So we’ll have to see for the future.”