NafisaSunderland manager Regis Le Bris has lavished praise on rising star Tommy Watson, though the Frenchman has admitted to having a ‘concern’ regarding the young winger’s development.
Watson, a product of Sunderland’s famed academy, has recently broken into the first team, impressing fans and coaching staff alike. His moment of glory came in the dramatic 2-1 win over Stoke City earlier this month, where he netted his first senior goals for the Black Cats. However, the 18-year-old’s momentum was cruelly halted when he sustained an injury in the subsequent fixture against Bristol City, ruling him out for two months.
The injury left Le Bris reshuffling his squad, with Eliezer Mayenda filling in on the left wing during Sunderland’s thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Swansea City. But Watson’s absence has been keenly felt, and with Romaine Mundle also sidelined, Le Bris has been left short of options on the left flank.
Speaking to Sky Sports pundit Simeon Gholam, Le Bris shared his thoughts on Watson’s emergence and the challenges that lie ahead for the young talent.
“I’m confident and I trust Tommy, but it’s still difficult to anticipate the future,” Le Bris admitted. “My main concern is to be focused on this improvement. The improvement of the team. His connection with the team. And if he’s connected with his potential, it will help us.”
Despite the setback, Watson’s rise has drawn comparisons to fellow academy graduate Chris Rigg, both of whom have become integral parts of the first-team squad. Yet Watson’s performances have not gone unnoticed beyond Wearside, with Premier League clubs Nottingham Forest and Brighton reportedly monitoring his progress ahead of the January transfer window.
For now, Le Bris is focused on bridging the gap left by Watson’s absence. Mundle, another promising talent, could return to action before the New Year after being sidelined since November. His comeback will be a welcome boost, with Sunderland in need of reinforcements on the wing.
However, Mundle will need to hit the ground running to cement his place in the starting XI. With Watson expected back early in the New Year, competition for the left-sided role is set to intensify, offering Le Bris the kind of selection headache every manager relishes.
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