BRADFORD, ENGLAND - JULY 30: Sunderland Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman talks to Head coach Regis Le Bris (R) during a Pre Season Friendly match between Bradford City and Sunderland at Coral Windows Stadium, Valley Parade on July 30, 2024 in Bradford, England. (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images)
Sunderland U21s assistant coach John Hewitson has claimed that Wilson Isidor’s versatility can be a “great asset” for the senior team as the Frenchman continues to find his feet on Wearside.
Isidor started a second consecutive match for the U21s on Friday evening, leading the line for 75 minutes during their 1-0 Premier League Cup defeat at the hands of Sheffield United. Earlier in the week, he had featured on the left flank in an impressive showing during a 3-2 loss to Liverpool, and debate continues to simmer over where he is most likely to be deployed by first team manager Regis Le Bris.
But speaking after Friday’s clash at Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground, Hewitson suggested that Isidor’s adaptability can only be a good thing. He said: “I think the manager and the first team will decide where he plays. I think he can play a variety of roles. We had the game on Monday – I think he was probably more effective in that game in a wide position, but ultimately it just depends on the individuals that are playing against him at that particular time.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
“Whether it was better central players on Monday, or not-so-good full-backs on Monday, you just don’t know. It’s still quite early to tell, but it’s very good that he’s versatile, it’s very good that he can play as a nine to give competition to centre-forwards at the club. He’s a great asset.”
For his part, Le Bris has hinted that he believes Isidor could be most effective operating in the left channel. After the forward made his debut against Portsmouth last weekend, his manager said: “He likes to play on the left side, but not totally on the sideline. I think he likes this area of this pitch. He can play on the left but even as a striker, for sure, his average position will be in this area. Both positions are good for him, I think.”
