Regis Le Bris is proud that Sunderland are embracing a “progressive process” ahead of their Premier League clash against Leeds on 28 December 2025.
Le Bris’ Black Cats currently lie sixth in the Premier League with the joint-third fewest number of conceded goals alongside Chelsea, having conceded 17 goals in 17 matches.
The 50-year-old Frenchman consequently felt that Sunderland’s defensive shape has been integral to building confidence as he looked ahead to their home game against Leeds on Sunday 28 December at 2pm GMT, live on Sky Sports in the UK.
“If you think about it, every phase is important for the outcome of the game. Confidence can be built through this defensive shape,” said Le Bris in the build-up to their final game of 2025 against Leeds United.
“Our forwards, our wingers are really important in this part of the game even if they can often use their energy. They are doing really well so far.
“Obviously you need good centre-backs and a strong goalkeeper and so on but it is a great team effort.
Le Bris therefore feels that the team are in a process that has been progressive so far in terms of foundations to the defensive shape then end product.
“I think it is a progressive process. If you think about foundations, often you start with the defensive shape and then you work on your build-up and the progressive phase and then you finish in your final third.”
With the Black Cats having played 17 matchweeks so far, Le Bris felt that their end product now needs to be finessed but feels that confidence and cohesive team spirit will be key to unlocking that extra quality.
“Now, we have better control of the ball and we are more confident to build-up under pressure against a strong press. We have to fine-tune this last part. Sometimes that is a question of collective behaviours but also confidence as well.
“It’s not the easiest part but I never worry about it.”
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