Regis Le Bris confirms Sunderland plan for Tommy Watson and explains flank switch

REGIS Tommy Watson, who made his entire debut at Preston, is expected to play an important role for Sunderland this season, according to Le Bris. Watson had a difficult night at Deepdale, but Le Bris believes the experience will be extremely beneficial to the 18-year-old, and that the winger will be given several opportunities in the coming months. Watson is now ahead of Nazariy Rusyn, Abdullah Ba, and Adil Aouchiche in the Sunderland pecking order. Le Bris was asked if a loan move for the teenager was possible in January, but the head coach now regards Watson as an important element of his first-team group.

“That is not a question at the moment, it’s too soon,” the politician replied. “But he’s ready to be in this position with the team.”We’ll wait one or two months to see, but he’s now very involved with the club and we need him as a substitute or starter.” Watson has shined for Sunderland’s Under-21s, particularly on the left side, but Le Bris chose to start him on the opposite wing at Preston, where he did not appear to be as comfortable. “I think he can play both sides, it’s not a problem for him,” according to Le Bris.

“We believed Wilson [Isidor] could be a threat down the left. It was not the case, however when working with the staff, we must manage various positions and players. “There is still a learning curve.”You may struggle at times. It was a difficult game, but it was a positive step toward the future. Sunderland struggled for extended stretches at Preston, making it difficult for Watson to make an impression, but Le Bris believes a maiden league start is a significant step forward for the teenager.

He stated, “A young player needs opportunities. It is all about learning and learning. You can’t imagine how difficult it will be until you try it, so it’s a good first step. “He worked for the team.” Obviously, it was not the best performance we expected from him, but that is typical; he needs time to adjust to the level. The squad did not control the game today, therefore it was a difficult situation for him.”