Régis Le Bris responds to Sunderland tactical rethink question as pressure grows to change amid relegation fears
Régis Le Bris has addressed whether Sunderland need a change of tactics as their Premier League struggles deepen
Régis Le Bris says Sunderland must be prepared to evolve as he considers how to address their Premier League struggles, but insists any changes must preserve the team’s identity.
The head coach revealed he has held discussions with his coaching staff and senior players about improvements, including Sunderland’s shape, build-up play and pressing. His comments come ahead of Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Dinamo Zagreb, which offers an opportunity to respond to the disappointing defeat at Coventry City.
Sunderland sit bottom of the Premier League with five points from nine games, increasing scrutiny of Le Bris’ tactics and team selection. Their European campaign has provided encouragement, however, with seven points collected from their opening three fixtures.
Asked whether Sunderland’s league difficulties had tempted him to change their style or system, and whether Zagreb offered an opportunity to experiment, Le Bris acknowledged the need to balance continuity with adaptation. “Consistency is key, but making decisions to evolve is also important,” he told The Echo. “So we have those conversations with the leaders, with the coaching staff about what we need to improve to get better.
“That’s obvious. Is it the shape? Is it the way we play? The way we build up? The way we press? It’s important to stick to the identity because if we move from one side to the other side, you lose your strength. But at the same time, if you don’t evolve, probably you don’t adapt. So it’s important to think about those topics. I agree.”
Join The Echo’s WhatsApp SAFC Channel for the latest news, team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join.
Le Bris stopped short of confirming a formation change against Zagreb, but his answer made clear that several aspects of Sunderland’s approach are under consideration. The challenge is to turn those discussions into improvements on the pitch, particularly after a Coventry performance that exposed familiar defensive problems.
With Chelsea visiting the Stadium of Light after Zagreb, Sunderland face two home fixtures with different demands. Thursday offers a chance to strengthen their European position and rebuild confidence. The Premier League encounter then brings the focus back to their urgent need for points, with Le Bris weighing how much to change without losing the foundations of his approach.
The Echo's Europa League coverage is sponsored by Mobility Care Solutions - your Award winning Mobility provider in Sunderland and the surrounding areas (Healthcare Matters Mobility Company of the Year 2026).
For mobility scooters, living aids & vehicle adaptations, Mobility Care Solutions are here to provide a helping hand to make daily living that little bit easier. Visit our showroom today.
Your next Sunderland read: Inside Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Florent Ghisolfi’s decision to stick with Régis Le Bris at Sunderland