Three months after that famous final-day win over Chelsea, Sunderland are back in competitive action on Saturday afternoon.
A historic campaign begins at Portman Road, with a tricky test for Le Bris’s side against newly-promoted Ipswich Town. The Sunderland head coach has some big decisions to make, with a relatively clean bill of health but a number of players not quite at their maximum in terms of match fitness. So here’s what we think Le Bris might go with, and who is likely to be on the bench with a big part to play...
9. RW - Trai Hume
Hume's place on the right flank divides opinion but Le Bris trusts him implicitly and he has made some vital contributions in that role. Sunderland are working to sign more options in the wide areas but Hume is in the team on merit. | AFP via Getty Images
10. LW - Nilson Angulo
Was given the nod on the left flank last week and his superb free kick might well be enough for him to retain his place this time around. | Nilson Angulo of Sunderland against Port Vale. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
11. ST - Brian Brobbey
Will be hoping to get on the scoreboard after a tricky opening day at Ipswich Town. Le Bris will almost certainly keep the faith in one of his key players. | Getty Images
12. Sub - Melker Ellborg
Anthony Patterson's £8 million to Wrexham settles Sunderland's goalkeeping group for now with Ellborg established as number two. | Getty Images