Régis Le Bris reflects on Sunderland’s response against Tottenham, key tactical changes and a Wilson Isidor injury update

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris admitted his side were fortunate to still be in the game at half-time, before praising their response in a hard-earned 1-1 draw away to Tottenham Hotspur.

The Black Cats struggled to gain control during a difficult first half and went in behind, but a much-improved second-half display was rewarded when Brian Brobbey struck late on to earn a point in north London.

Asked what he said to his players at the break, Le Bris was candid about Sunderland’s performance and the fine margins involved. “We had a lack of energy and just one needle down, it was possible to switch on, which probably we were a bit lucky because in a Premier League game, when you don't play at your best, you should be punished. And it wasn't the case, so we were still alive,” he said.

“And we said, just switch on, do simple things well, because I think tactically we were OK. It was just a question of being more composed with the ball, the ability to win the first contact, because they went direct, as expected, against our man-for-man press. And we didn't win the first contact, the second ball, so the balance of the game was like that. And we had the character and the quality to switch on, and I think it's positive.”

Le Bris’ tactical tweaks and substitutions proved decisive after the interval, with Sunderland gaining a foothold as Spurs’ early dominance faded. The head coach explained the thinking behind his changes, including the introduction of Dan Ballard, who had been managing an injury.

“Absolutely. It wasn't possible to play with Ballard in the first half because of his injury. We didn't want to rush the process,” Le Bris said. “I think in this game, especially when you go directly to Richarlison, once, twice but 20 times, I don't know how many, you need two strong centre-backs with a specific profile.”

Le Brs added after the game: “Nordi and Omar did well, but Ballard is a weapon in that case, so he helped. And Nordi, I think, was good on the right side as well, to deliver crosses and to use the big spaces. Finally, to deliver this key pass at the end.”

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Le Bris was also asked about the absence of Wilson Isidor, who was not included in the matchday squad after suffering what was described as a minor injury. When asked about the issue, Le Bris added: “It's a small injury, probably minor. I hope it will be available for Brentford.”

Sunderland now turn their attention to a midweek clash against Brentford in London once again on Wednesday, encouraged by another resilient display and a point that underlined their ability to adapt, respond and compete deep into matches in their Premier League return.

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