Journalist Phil Smith has shed light on what Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris admires most about one of his Black Cats players. This revelation comes on the heels of yet another Championship victory, which has propelled Sunderland to the top of the league table.
In the wake of their latest triumph, Smith highlighted the qualities that have endeared this player to Le Bris, reflecting the manager’s appreciation for his contributions to the team’s success. The win not only solidified Sunderland’s position as league leaders but also underscored the importance of this key player in their rise to the top.
Sunderland top of the Championship
The Black Cats are thriving under their new manager, with hopes of a genuine push for automatic promotion in the Championship growing stronger with each passing week.
This past Saturday, Sunderland secured a 3-1 victory in a long trip south to Portsmouth, maintaining their perfect start to the new season. Le Bris’ side has now won all four of their league matches, making them the only team to have achieved this feat. Alongside Portsmouth, they have claimed victories against Cardiff City, Sheffield Wednesday, and Burnley, the latter being a particularly significant win.
Burnley, considered by many to be the favorites for the Championship title in 2024/25, fell to Sunderland in a match that felt like a statement of intent. While it’s still early in the season and the loss of star player Jack Clarke to Ipswich Town is a significant setback, life under Le Bris couldn’t be much better at the moment.
Several players are excelling for Sunderland, including Chris Rigg, who, despite being just 17 years old, already plays with the composure of a seasoned veteran, having featured in all four league matches and started three of them. However, it is another young talent who has recently earned special praise.
Journalist talks up Le Bris’ admiration for Mayenda
In a recent article for The Sunderland Echo, Phil Smith highlighted that Eliezer Mayenda has quickly become a favorite of Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris. This is largely due to Mayenda’s eagerness to learn and his ability to swiftly grasp the defensive responsibilities demanded of him. His commitment to understanding the tactical requirements has earned him Le Bris’ trust and admiration.
Smith further noted that Mayenda’s status within the squad has evolved significantly. Once considered a backup attacking option, he has now emerged as the first-choice forward, a development that might even influence the club’s future transfer strategies regarding the signing of a senior striker. Mayenda’s strong start to the season, marked by two goals and two assists in his first four Championship appearances, has justified the praise coming his way. Le Bris himself has spoken highly of the 19-year-old, commending his dedication to improving his game and setting an example for the rest of the squad. Last season, Mayenda wasn’t a regular starter, but his determination to enhance his skills has been evident, and his efforts are now being rewarded on the pitch.
At just 19, Mayenda is still a work in progress, and supporters should be patient if he experiences a dip in form. However, the early signs are incredibly promising. His place in the starting lineup is well-deserved, and Smith’s observation that the Portsmouth match was likely Mayenda’s best performance of the season—where he provided two assists—indicates that the young forward is continually developing as a player.