adminSunderland Pre-Season Preview: Five Players Who Must Make Their Mark
Sunderland’s pre-season campaign is just days away, and excitement is building as the Black Cats gear up for two matches in one afternoon.
The team will return to action for the first time since their Championship play-off final triumph over Sheffield United with a double-header this Saturday. They’ll face National League side Gateshead at lunchtime, followed by a clash with National League North outfit South Shields later that day.
After their North East openers, Regis Le Bris will take his squad to Portugal, where they’ll face top-tier European opposition in Sevilla and Sporting CP during a warm-weather training camp. A testimonial match against Scottish Premiership side Hearts, honouring former Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, follows soon after.
Sunderland’s pre-season will wrap up with three more challenging fixtures: home matches at the Stadium of Light against Real Betis and Rayo Vallecano, either side of an away trip to Bundesliga club Augsburg.
With a packed schedule ahead, Le Bris will rotate his squad heavily, offering chances to fringe players and Academy talents alike. For some, this summer presents a vital opportunity to stake a claim for the Premier League campaign ahead. Here are five players who need to impress:
1. Jenson Seelt
Signed from PSV Eindhoven in summer 2023, Seelt arrived with high expectations. However, a serious knee injury disrupted his first season on Wearside. Now nearing full fitness, the Dutch defender will aim to catch Le Bris’ eye during pre-season and push for a place in the senior squad.
2. Alan Browne
With the arrivals of Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki, and the permanent signing of Enzo Le Fée, competition in midfield is fierce. Browne, who returned from injury in February, found himself in and out of the lineup. He’ll need a strong pre-season showing to solidify his place in Le Bris’ plans.
3. Ian Poveda
The Colombian international endured a disappointing loan spell last season, managing only six Championship appearances without a goal or assist. If Poveda is to turn his fortunes around, a productive pre-season could be crucial to reigniting his Sunderland career
4. Harrison Jones
The Academy graduate has featured six times under Le Bris and is expected to see further minutes during pre-season. How the young midfielder performs may determine whether he breaks into the Premier League squad or heads out on loan, with reported interest from other clubs.
5. Leo Hjelde
Though currently sidelined due to an Achilles injury requiring further surgery, Hjelde still has much to prove. The Norway U21 international won’t be available until after the season starts, and with potential new defensive signings incoming, he’ll face a fight for his place upon his return to fitness.
With Premier League football looming, Sunderland’s pre-season offers a critical proving ground. For these five players, the next few weeks could shape their future at the Stadium of Light.
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