Sunderland fell to a 2-0 defeat against Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday night

Régis Le Bris says he fully understands the frustration of the Sunderland support after the Black Cats fell to another defeat on Thursday night.

Dinamo Zagreb were 2-0 winners at the Stadium of Light in the Europa League, meaning that Le Bris's side have taken just one win in the Carabao Cup since returning from the international break in early October.

Performances have continued to slide and the Sunderland head coach said he had no issues with the disappointment and anger of the fans.

“I understand the fans’ disappointment, it’s fair to say that," he said.

"They are so passionate with the club. When you lose, it is tough. I can’t blame them, 100 per cent, I know their support and passion. I also know that they will stick together, with the club and with us. The supporters will stick with the players, the team, the coaching staff and everyone around. Collectively, we have to show our strength.”

Le Bris has continued to defend the work rate and application of his players and did so again after this defeat, though he conceded that the intensity in the first half in particular fell short.

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“In the first half, I agree," he said.

"But it’s hard to say because I see them every day on the training pitch. I see them in the facilities and they want to give their best, but this period is not an easy one for the players. It is important to support them, but to be demanding as well because it is not enough for Sunderland at the minute. We expect more. For different reasons, they can’t give more at the minute. It is what it is, but I still believe that the core of the squad has the strength to switch things around.

“We needed more quality, it is fair to say that," Le Bris added.

"I think the players in the team, in the second half, showed more. Was it enough to change the game? No, obviously. So, we can’t complain, we can’t look for excuses. This period will define us as a team. When it’s tough, you have to show your character. We can push and support them, but the reality is on the pitch and the most important game will be against Chelsea on Sunday."

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