Seelt in driving seat as Le Bris eyes more defensive cover

Régis Le Bris admits he does not know if Sunderland will sign a senior central defender before their Premier League campaign begins against West Ham United next Saturday.

- by Phil Smith

It's an area of the pitch where the Black Cats are light due to Luke O’Nien’s injury and though Reinildo could deputise in that position, Dennis Cirkin’s injury means that then creates another issue at left-back.

Arthur Masuaku has signed to strengthen that position, but is short of match fitness after leaving Besiktas at the end of last season.

Sunderland are working to try and recruit Omar Alderete, but whether they complete the deal in time, and whether that player will be ready to face West Ham, is not clear.

Le Bris made clear that he is ready to select Jenson Seelt, after the defender concluded an impressive preseason campaign with a strong display against FC Augsburg on Saturday.

"I don't know," Le Bris said.