The Black Cats are currently sitting near the top of the table after securing some impressive victories in recent months.
While they may have had some luck, such as benefiting from an error by Illan Meslier that earned them a point against Leeds United before the international break, L e Bris and his team deserve praise for their efforts.
According to Football Insider, the manager of the Wearside club is hoping for support in the transfer market this January, provided his team remains in contention for automatic promotion.
This makes sense, as by then, Le Bris would have demonstrated his ability to deliver consistent results.
He is said to have expressed his desire for this backing during the winter transfer window, but it remains unclear where the board stands on the matter.
Although they haven’t spent large amounts on individual players in recent years, it’s clear that Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has made a significant investment in the first-team squad.
The sale of Jack Clarke to Ipswich Town could, however, generate some of the funds needed for January.
The Black Cats have generally been solid defensively, with their 3-2 loss to Plymouth Argyle standing out as an exception this season.
They’ve been conceding fewer than a goal per game in the league while averaging two goals scored per match, putting them in a strong position to build on their form.
Despite facing some tough fixtures already, they’ve risen to the challenge, even with a relatively young squad.
Their midfield is particularly inexperienced, with players like Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg regularly starting under Le Bris, but this hasn’t held them back.
In fact, both have stepped up, with Rigg already scoring key goals this season.
However, it’s still early in the campaign, with only nine league matches played so far.
There are still 15 more league games before the January transfer window, which means a packed schedule ahead.
Fortunately, the club has depth in their squad, though plenty can change in the Championship standings between now and then.
On paper, they have several winnable fixtures in the next few months, but they will also face challenges against teams like West Bromwich Albion (H), Sheffield United (A), and Blackburn Rovers (A)—matches that could prove difficult.
The away game at Bramall Lane could be especially challenging, so it will be interesting to see how they handle it.
If Le Bris hopes for support in the transfer market, he’ll need to secure enough points before the January window. That, however, will be no easy task.
Where Sunderland may need to strengthen in January transfer window
There are several positions to consider in January if the Black Cats’ leadership supports Le Bris.
The goalkeeper position might need reinforcement, as Anthony Patterson may benefit from more competition for the starting role at the Stadium of Light.
Other than that, there likely aren’t many areas that need additional depth.
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