There must have been a palpable sense of relief from Sunderland supporters when Regis Le Bris’ appointment was confirmed late last week, finally bringing to an end the Black Cats’ drawn-out search for a new manager.
The ex-Lorient head coach put pen to paper on a three-year deal at the club on Friday, eager now to get down to work and restore pride into the Wearside outfit again after a poor season saw Sunderland finish in a lowly 16th spot.
The new French boss will no doubt want a number of incomings to stamp his authority but there could also be some outgoings too, which may well include one of his former players at Lorient being moved on.
Aouchiche’s time at Lorient
Sunderland fans might have been excited by the prospect of Adil Aouchiche and what he could do this coming season after shining in spurts last campaign, despite such a poor overall year for the team.
The daring 21-year-old would help himself to a promising five goal contributions from 30 games in all competitions, but could find his fledging Sunderland career cut short with Le Bris rarely using him when the two were at Lorient together.
Aouchiche would only end up making 13 appearances for his ex-employers with Les Bris at the helm, with just one league start handed out to the 5 foot 11 attacking midfielder during the 2022/23 campaign by the new Black Cats manager, before leaving for England under his tenure.
