Sunderland and Chemsdine Talbi opted not to proceed with a potential transfer to Saudi Arabia

Régis Le Bris insists it was a ‘shared decision’ for Chemsdine Talbi to remain at the club despite interest from Saudi Arabia.

The Black Cats were reluctant to sanction the deal after seeing Romaine Mundle and Habib Diarra pick up significant injuries, but Le Bris says Talbi showed how committed he is to the club with his superb performance against Hull City in midweek. Talbi scored the winning goal with an excellent solo effort, and gave Le Bris a new tactical option with a strong showing as a second striker.

Talbi drew praise from his boss for how quickly he was able to refocus on his position at Sunderland and is pleased with the added versatility he now has within his squad.

“It was the same schedule [with the injuries], I would say,” Le Bris said.

“But at the end of the day, it was a shared decision. It was clear that it wasn't the best moment to leave for him, for us, so we are aligned. It was a consensus. He showed against Hull that he's all in with us, no doubt. It's impressive for a young guy because you can say what you want, but this period is always hard to manage.

“But after the end of the market in Saudi, it's done. Now he’s switched on with Sunderland 100 per cent. It was impressive. His position is versatile- he has the space, the ability to run on the right side under the striker [as a ten] and to manage transitions really well. It's another option for the manager and the coaching staff. I think it's really positive.”

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Le Bris believes that like Chris Rigg, Talbi’s showing in midweek demonstrates his growing maturity.

“He's getting more mature - we had this conversation with Riggy as well,” the head coach said.

“Riggy is still 18, Chemsdine is 21, they're so young. They are impressive because they can switch on really quickly, absorb this period with different options. Playing football at the best level requires freedom, to be relaxed, and they can switch so quickly. It's impressive.”

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