Head coach Régis Le Bris has hailed the importance of Sunderland's player pathway. The Frenchman has expressed his strong belief in the club’s commitment to creating an environment that empowers young players to thrive.

This campaign, at least three academy graduates have featured in every matchday squad, with team captain Dan Neil, goalkeeper Anthony Patterson, and 17-year-old Chris Rigg starting the majority of the club’s league fixtures.

Tommy Watson has also enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, with a standout two-goal display against Stoke City coming before injury ended his involvement until the New Year.

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Speaking ahead of the festive schedule, Le Bris emphasised the importance of consistency, opportunity and the connection between the academy and first team. “It’s very positive for the club,” he said. “From my background, I believe in young players.

“It’s not a problem for me to play with these players because I like the surprise we can have with them, and they need confidence, they need clarity about their role on the pitch.

“When they are on the pitch, they represent something different, I think. On the other side, the club has to show that the environment here is good for their development.

“The way the team is playing, the game model, the consistency of the staff and the perspective for the future, I think the balance is really good at the minute. The identity of the club is getting stronger.

“Our responsibility is to create the best environment possible – and I think we have created that when you look back one or two years.”