Régis Le Bris press conference injury update ahead of Sunderland vs Aston Villa, with latest on Mukiele, Ballard and sidelined trio
Sunderland head to Villa Park on Sunday to face Aston Villa, looking to continue an impressive run that has them pushing beyond their original targets for the season.
With six games remaining, Sunderland sit on 46 points, well clear of the 40-point mark typically associated with Premier League safety, and are now beginning to look towards the European places.
Head coach Régis Le Bris addressed the media on Friday, offering an update on his squad as preparations continue for the trip to the Midlands.
Momentum is building within the group following last weekend’s 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, where Nordi Mukiele scored the winning goal after returning from injury.
Ballard returns as Sunderland close in on full strength
Le Bris confirmed that another key defender is now back in contention, with Dan Ballard returning to full training.
“Dan Ballard is fully fit and he has trained normally this week, so he is available for selection but you have to understand the dynamic of the group and the key for Ballard is to build his fitness levels”.
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There was also an update on the remaining injury concerns within the squad, with a trio still sidelined but edging closer to a return.
“Nilson [Angulo], Bertrand [Traoré] and Jocelin [Ta Bi] are still sidelined but they are really close to reconnect with the squad maybe around the Forest game.”
Sunderland’s strong position in the table reflects the consistency they have shown throughout the campaign, despite dealing with injuries at various stages.
Le Bris also reflected on the club’s initial targets and how his side have surpassed expectations.
“40 points is an in-reach target put probably the highest points [possible], maybe less but if you want to set the highest standards 40 points is fair,” he said.
With key players returning and confidence high, Sunderland head into the clash with Aston Villa in a strong position as they look to finish the season on a high.