REGIS LE BRIS claims Romaine Mundle has some “pure X-factor” that could lead to him playing a major role with Sunderland this season.
The Black Cats are in advanced talks with Mundle and his representatives over a new contract, with Le Bris and the rest of the club’s hierarchy keen to extend the winger’s current deal, which has just under two years to run.
Mundle has only made 19 starts across the last two seasons, with his progress having been heavily disrupted by a string of injury setbacks.
However, with Sunderland officials having knocked back a number of inquiries for the 23-year-old, Le Bris is looking forward to seeing what he can deliver in the Premier League this season.
“Romaine struggled last season and the season before as well because of hamstring injuries,” said the Sunderland boss. “So, I hope now it's solved and fixed because now after two surgeries it seems solid.
“We know the player, the player has a pure X-factor and it's rare, this ability to dribble and to finish in the final turn. It's impressive and now it's a question of time. If he's consistent physically, I'm sure that he can help the team.”
Mundle was a second-half substitute as Sunderland completed their pre-season programme with a 2-1 win over French side Rennes yesterday.
The winger struck the woodwork from a free-kick in the closing stages, having replaced Chemsdine Talbi just after the hour mark.
Mundle already finds himself competing with Talbi, Nilson Angulo and Jocelin Ta Bi in the wide-attacking positions, with Trai Hume another option in an advanced role, and Sunderland remain keen to add another wide forward before the transfer window closes, with Benfica’s Geny Catamo still a leading target.
The competition for places in Le Bris’ starting XI is intense, with the Sunderland boss admitting there is no clear pecking order ahead of next weekend’s Premier League opener at Ipswich Town.
“We’ll see,” said Le Bris, when asked about Mundle’s likely game time. “It’s a bit too early to know. For Romaine and the other wingers, we have many options.
“They still need maturity, and maturity means game time and experiences. So it might be on the bench, and then a few minutes, you can build on a strong experience. We know that the first part of the season will be busy, so we’ll see.”
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