Sunderland return to Premier League action when they face Fulham on Saturday

Régis Le Bris has admitted that Omar Alderete's chances of a recall to the Sunderland starting XI this weekend may have been impacted by his red card while on international duty with Paraguay.

Sunderland had been hoping that Alderete would be able to use Paraguay's two friendlies to build his match fitness after a concussion. However, Alderete was shown a red card for his role in a touchline fracas against the USA meaning he was then suspended for the next game.

The 28-year-old has therefore not played any competitive football since the 2-0 win over Wolves last month, meaning he may for now be used as a substitute. Lutsharel Geertruida has impressed in Alderete's absence, and looks set to continue at Craven Cottage against Fulham.

"Omar is like that, he can react a bit quickly to some events so it's bad news from one side because he had the opportunity to play again to get some minutes and it wasn't possible," Le Bris said.

"At the same time he was connected with his national team so we'll see.

"Yes [it could be a factor for Saturday's selection], I think it was important for us in his schedule to play those games with his national team. It wasn't possible because of the situation. So, we'll see [for Saturday].

"We never know before the last minute before the game what the situation will be exactly. We know that Omar is a really good player who started really well. So, we'll see if we decide to use him or not."

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Regis Le Bris on Sunderland’s Fulham test

While Fulham have had a mixed start to the Premier League campaign, Le Bris has warned that Sunderland face a stern test against a side particularly strong on home turf.

“They are really efficient at home, they can create chances in different ways, they are really proactive, good side, good players, good experience from the coaching staff, so really efficient,” Le Bris said.

“I don't really understand why they struggle away but we won't play away so it's not the main topic for this game. Another tough challenge, we know that in this Premier League we can't play an easy game, it doesn't exist and this one will be another tough one.”

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