Le Bris pleased with his side's improvement and progress

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris said he is pleased with his team's progress after their o-o draw with Man City The Frenchman said his Sunderland players showed how quickly they are learning after holding Manchester City at the Stadium of Light.

- by Phil Smith

The Black Cats played well against Pep Guardiola's side through the first half in particular, creating some good chances and largely limiting the visitors.

Le Bris had opted against playing a flat back five as he has done on some occasions this season, with Trai Hume and Eliezer Mayenda both playing in more advanced positions than initially expected.

Having lost 3-0 to Man City at the start of December, Le Bris said this spirited performance was a reflection of their progress already this season.

"One more good point against one of the best teams in Europe," he said.

"With many threats, they can score from everywhere, from different phases. I think we defended well. We were bold to press high, a bit more consistent in the midblock, I think. In the defensive third, we were consistent.