Sunderland boss opens up on Jocelin Ta Bi selection plan and drops hint after Brentford heroics

Sunderland are back in Premier League action when they face Coventry City on Saturday afternoon

Régis Le Bris has hinted that he is likely to use Jocelin Ta Bi as an impact sub for the time being in the Premier League despite his superb performance against Brentford in the Carabao Cup.

Ta Bi was heavily involved in all three goals as Sunderland booked a quarter final clash with Crystal Palace, delivering his best performance yet since his arrival from Israel in January. The youngster has been catching the eye behind the scenes and has continued to impress in U21 football whenever selected, paving the way for potentially greater involvement in the weeks and months ahead.

The Sunderland head coach was impressed with Ta Bi’s display in midweek, particularly the defensive discipline he showed in the second half as the Black Cats defended their lead. Le Bris nevertheless spoke afterwards about the balance he needs to strike in his league selection, ensuring he gives the club’s talented young players the chances they need to learn and grow while also acknowledging that their lack of experience will inevitably lead to some mistakes.

Speaking on Ta Bi specifically ahead of Saturday’s clash with Coventry City, Le Bris said he needed to get the balance right with his two wingers but that the youngster could have a role to play from the bench.

“All the games are important,” Le Bris said.

“We played in the Premier League, the Europa League and the Carabao Cup. We believe that every game is important. Obviously, it's important to manage the balance and the freshness of the squad. The players showed that they are getting better with experience. Jocelin is a really good example, coming from Israel, No experience at this level. Talented, gifted, no problem. But you have to be exposed to learn and to grow as a teammate and as a footballer at this level.

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“He started against Fulham last year, Difficult, got a quick injury and wasn't involved really after that. At the beginning of this year, 'I had a few experiences, just OK, and now I've stepped up\. It's a question of time and support. It doesn't mean that he's ready, but he's in a good place.

“Probably it's a bit early [to start regularly], but with wingers, you can give them game time at the end of the game,” he added.

“We have a starter, probably a bit more mature for the first part of the game. It's often required. It's possible to play with one side, and then if you play with both sides with two young wingers, I think it's difficult for the balance of the squad. You can come on for the last 20, 25, 30 minutes when the game is a bit more open. Wednesday was a good example.”

Ta Bi was not included in the matchday squad against Leeds United on Sunday and Wilson Isidor's return means is not guaranteed a place at Coventry, but his performance has given Le Bris a major dilemma.

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