Sunderland have begun their preparations for the new season with a comfortable win over York City

Régis Le Bris believes Enzo Le Fée has found his position at Sunderland following his sparkling return to action at York City.

Le Fée scored twice in his 45-minute cameo at the LNER Community Stadium, and had an audacious chip ruled out for offside. It was an encouraging performance from the 26-year-old at the start of a crucial campaign, with his form at the end of last season a key reason why the club were able to finish strongly and secure Europa League qualification.

A move back into a central attacking midfield role had been key to that form, and Le Bris has made clear that is where he will continue for the foreseeable future.

"Yeah, Enzo, I think he has found his position on the pitch," Le Bris said.

"When he plays central with freedom in this three-midfield structure, he's really good and really positive. And now with the knowledge of the club, his teammates, he's getting better and better."

Meanwhile, Le Bris has confirmed his plan to have a squad of around twenty first-team players next season to be ready for the rigours of a demanding schedule. The Sunderland head coach again reiterated that the Premier League will be the club's main priority, but they are determined to embrace the club's first European campaign for over 50 years.

"It's important to build a squad ready for both competitions," he said.

"First of all, the Premier League is going to be our main target. After that, it's important to strengthen the group with two or three, four maybe, core players to strengthen the foundations. After that, we need a full group, almost 20, to be able to manage."

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Régis Le Bris’s Sunderland transfer message after York City win

Sunderland have so far only made one addition in the transfer window, signing free agent Thomas Meunier on a two-year deal.

Le Bris said after the win over York City that the club were working hard to strengthen their squad, but that there was no panic given how strong the foundations of the squad following last summer’s recruitment drive.

Le Bris said: “I'm never relaxed, I don't know this word!

“But yes, it's a bit different this summer. Last season, we had to sign 14 new players and this time we'll probably go for six or seven.

“It's half of the job we've done last season, so it's going to be different. More precise, which is good because we have a strong foundation. We never know because the market is slow this season. It's better to wait and to take the right decision rather than rushing anything."

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