Trai Hume says Sunderland rediscovered the defensive resilience that underpinned last season’s success as the Black Cats drew 0-0 with Leeds United at the Stadium of Light.

Régis Le Bris’ side ended a run of four successive Premier League defeats with a determined display, keeping a clean sheet and creating opportunities to win the game.

“Last season, we prided ourselves on being together and defensively strong, and we were back to that today,” Hume said.

“It was definitely an improvement. We haven’t been at our usual standard, but it was good to see that back today.”

Sunderland were made to work in difficult conditions on Wearside, with the wind playing a significant part throughout the contest.

“The wind played its part and it probably showed in the game,” he added. “I thought it was even throughout.”

Hume also praised the return of Brian Brobbey, who twice went close in the first half on his return to the starting line-up.

“We know how important Brian is,” he said. “We have missed him. He is a huge presence for us and it is good to have him back.”

The Northern Ireland international reserved further praise for Robin Roefs after the goalkeeper made several important saves to preserve Sunderland’s clean sheet.

“Robin is back to his best and he made some brilliant saves today,” Hume added. “It is great to have a confident goalkeeper behind us.”

Régis Le Bris hailed Sunderland’s togetherness and intensity after the Black Cats delivered a resilient performance to earn a point against Leeds United at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland created several promising opportunities at the Stadium of Light, with Brian Brobbey going close twice on his return to the starting line-up before Nilson Angulo tested Leeds goalkeeper James Trafford after the break.

At the other end, Robin Roefs made a series of important saves to help Sunderland secure a clean sheet, with the hosts showing their resilience to withstand late pressure and claim a point.

For Le Bris, the performance was an important step forward, with the Head Coach highlighting the identity his team showed throughout the contest.

“The biggest positive was the way we played,” he said.

“We played with togetherness and intensity - and we were Sunderland today.

“We had some good chances, but we need to be more clinical. We probably deserved a bit more today.”

“It is a new challenge for us, and we need to embrace it,” he continued.

“I am confident in the team spirit and the way we are working hard to get better together.

“Consistency is still key, and we have another game on Wednesday to go again. It is another opportunity to get better.”

Sunderland 0-0 Leeds United

Sunderland produced a determined performance to secure a point against Leeds United at the Stadium of Light, ending their run of four successive Premier League defeats with a hard-fought 0-0 draw.

In blustery conditions on Wearside, the Black Cats started positively and created the clearest opportunities of the first half, with Brian Brobbey twice going close on his return to the starting line-up.

The striker was denied by Leeds goalkeeper James Trafford on both occasions, but Sunderland continued to look for a breakthrough after the interval, with Nilson Angulo testing the visiting shot-stopper twice from the edge of the area.

Trafford again proved difficult to beat, while Sunderland showed their defensive organisation to keep Leeds at bay for much of the contest.

Robin Roefs was called into action after the break, producing important saves to deny Tarik Muharemovic’s header from a corner and Ao Tanaka’s low drive from distance.

The Sunderland goalkeeper then came up with another crucial intervention in the 90th minute, keeping out substitute Sean Longstaff before the hosts stood firm through a tense period of stoppage time.

It was a resilient display from Régis Le Bris’ side, who matched their opponents across a closely fought contest, created opportunities of their own and showed determination to see out the final stages and claim a clean sheet.

The result brings Sunderland’s run of defeats to an end and gives the team a foundation to build on, with the Black Cats now turning their attention to midweek cup action.

Ipswich Women 3-1 Sunderland Women

Sunderland Women’s unbeaten start to the WSL2 season came to an end with a 3-1 defeat to Ipswich Town at the JobServe Community Stadium on Sunday. 

Elise Hughes had given the Lasses a three-minute lead – but Georgia Timms levelled eight minutes later, before after Tess Laplacette’s straight red card, Princess Ademiluyi’s brace condemned the Lasses to their first WSL2 defeat of the campaign. 

Head Coach Mel Reay made eight changes from last weekend’s Tyne-Wear derby win over Newcastle, as Tara Bourne returned to captain the side, while Hughes led the line. 

It took the Lasses just over three minutes to take the lead, as Tess Laplacette’s corner was headed home at the front post by Hughes. 

However, Ipswich hit back with 11 minutes gone, when Timms’ effort from the edge of the penalty area was side-footed into the bottom right corner. 

The Tractor Girls almost headed into half time ahead – but after being released in behind, Megan Hornby’s shot drifted over the bar, before the winger’s free-kick was palmed over by Fran Stenson. 

The Lasses were reduced to ten players within two minutes of the second half, when Laplacette was deemed to have pulled Timms to the ground, denying the forward a clear goalscoring opportunity. 

Reay’s side continued to probe, and almost retook the lead, as Katy Watson’s shot was arrowed into the gloves of Lysianne Proulx. 

However, Ipswich took the lead after 57 minutes, when Ademiluyi drove forward on the right wing, before unleashing a shot past Stenson. 

Ademiluyi netted Ipswich’s third 10 minutes later, as she latched onto Maria Boswell’s long ball to fire past Stenson. 

The Lasses almost pulled a goal back late on – but Chloe Paxton’s header cannoned off the crossbar. 

Attention turns back to the Subway Players Cup next weekend, as Sheffield United visit Eppleton CW on November 1st (2pm kick-off). 

Régis Le Bris has made three changes to his Sunderland side for this afternoon’s Premier League fixture against Leeds United at the Stadium of Light, kick-off 4.30pm GMT.

Following defeat at AFC Bournemouth last weekend, Brian Brobbey returns to the starting line-up after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Luke O’Nien and Nilson Angulo also come into the side.

Omar Alderete and Timur Tutierov are named among the substitutes, while Kevin Danso begins a one-match suspension following his red card at Bournemouth.

Elsewhere, Chris Rigg makes his 100th appearance for Sunderland, becoming the youngest player in the Club’s history to reach the milestone. O’Nien also moves into the top 20 of Sunderland’s all-time appearance makers.

Sunderland: Roefs (GK), Hume, Mukiele, O’Nien, Reinildo, Xhaka (C), Le Fée, Sadiki, Rigg, Angulo, Brobbey.
Substitutes: Ellborg (GK), Methalie, Alderete, Diarra, Ahoka, Talbi, Fofana, Juan Riquelme, Tutierov.

Sunderland Under-21s return to Premier League 2 action on Monday night as they make the short trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United in a Tyne-Wear derby, with kick-off at 7pm.

The young Black Cats head into the fixture sixth in the table, having won three, drawn one and lost one of their opening five league matches.

Matt Craddock’s side were held to a 2-2 draw by Arsenal in their previous outing, despite Trey Ogunsuyi’s brace putting Sunderland in a strong position to claim all three points. The Lads were reduced to ten men in the closing stages before the hosts snatched a late equaliser.

Despite the frustration, Craddock believes the performance highlighted the progress his side are making.

“It’s probably a positive thing when you’re coming away from Arsenal really frustrated with a 2-2 draw,” he said. “I think there were some large parts of the game we were excellent.”

The Head Coach also identified areas for improvement, particularly in front of goal and in possession, as Sunderland look to turn promising performances into victories.

“I think we could’ve taken our chances a bit better. Maybe put the game to bed at 2-1; I thought we had a good chance to go to 3-1,” he added.

The opposition

Newcastle United have endured a difficult start to their Premier League 2 campaign, sitting bottom of the table without a point from their opening three fixtures.

The Magpies have suffered defeats against Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham and Leeds United, scoring just once across those matches. They will be looking to get their season up and running on Monday night, while Sunderland will be aiming to build on their positive start and claim local bragging rights.

Newcastle are led by Robbie Stockdale, who was appointed Under-21s head coach permanently in March 2026. Stockdale is familiar with Wearside, having spent six years at Sunderland between 2012 and 2018, working across the Academy and first-team coaching staff.

Coverage

Follow all the action from Monday night’s Tyne-Wear derby with match updates on the official Academy of Light X account.

Sunderland supporters are being encouraged to Bring a Pound to the Ground when the Black Cats take on Leeds United at the Stadium of Light on Sunday 25 October.

As part of Foundation of Light's 25th anniversary celebrations, volunteers will be out in force with collection buckets, raising vital funds for Sunderland AFC's official charity.

For 25 years, the Foundation has used the power of football to change lives across the North East, helping children, young people and families build brighter futures.

A pound might not seem much, but together we can make a huge difference.

So, whether it's £1, £2 or whatever you can spare, bring some cash, look out for our bucket collectors and help us make this Foundation Matchday one to remember.

Every donation helps change a life, help us be there for the next person. Donate now >

Sunderland AFC are back in Premier League action tomorrow (Sunday) as they welcome Leeds United to the Stadium of Light, kick-off 4.30pm GMT - and supporters can follow every moment across safc.com and our official channels.

Live audio commentary will be available here on safc.com, while our Match Centre will keep you updated with a live blog, in-game statistics, and a detailed report at the final whistle.

After full-time, we’ll bring you post-match reaction from Head Coach Régis Le Bris and some of the standout Sunderland performers.

Highlights from the game will be available to watch from 8.30pm GMT on Sunday on safc.com for supporters signed up to our Membership.

Extended highlights and a full 90-minute replay will also follow from midnight on safc.com, giving fans the chance to relive all the action from Wearside.

You can also catch highlights on our official YouTube channel at 10pm GMT on Sunday – make sure you’re subscribed and have notifications switched on so you don’t miss out.

As always, stay right up to date with the Black Cats by following Sunderland AFC across X, Facebook, and Instagram.

Kick-Off	Platforms	Who can watch?	Type of highlight	What time are they available?
Sunday, 4.30pm GMT	safc.com    YT, Twitter and FB safc.com	Members Everyone Members	2 minutes 2 minutes Full game	8.30pm GMT 10pm GMT Midnight

 

Over the past 25 years, Foundation of Light has helped change lives across the North East. Now, we want to shine a light on the people who have been part of that journey.

Have you benefited from the Foundation’s programmes? Whether it helped you develop new skills, build confidence, find a career or discover a passion, we’d love to hear your story and learn about the impact it has had on your life.

Share your story, along with any photographs, by emailing media@safc.com. We’ll look to share as many stories as possible as we celebrate 25 years of changing lives.

My journey with the Foundation of Light started when I was about 10 or 11. My mam saw a newspaper feature about a free deaf football session at Crowtree Leisure Centre, and she thought it would be a good opportunity for me to get involved.

I’d never really played football with other deaf people before, so it was the first time I’d been part of a session adapted to me. I’ll always remember Foundation coach Kevin Darke, who gave me so much confidence.

Being around other deaf people made me feel comfortable, and that allowed my confidence to grow. Also, as a huge Sunderland AFC fan, working with coaches wearing the badge really drew me in.

I was already playing mainstream football, but I’d never experienced anything like those sessions. The environment was so welcoming, and I just kept coming back. Every week, there were new people, and we had a really good group who got the best out of each other.

I continued with mainstream football and eventually moved away from the deaf sessions, but I returned when Sunderland Deaf Team was established in the local area. The team affiliated with the Foundation, giving us access to its resources, and Kevin became involved in the setup. Some of my teammates were people I’d played alongside at those very first sessions years earlier.

From there, we went from strength to strength. We became one of the top deaf football teams in the country, winning leagues and cups, and Sunderland were champions of England four years in a row. We were selected as England representatives to take part in the Deaf Champions League in Greece in 2022 against some of the world’s best teams. Seven or eight of that team had been coached by the Foundation at some point, which shows the impact those early sessions had.

I played for Sunderland Deaf Team until I was around 28, representing Great Britain at under-21 level and the Scotland Deaf Football Team along the way. I had a choice between England and Scotland, and after speaking with my dad and other family members, I chose Scotland in honour of my grandad. He would have been so proud to see me pull on that shirt.

Looking back, it was some ride. I won multiple championships, represented my country and met some incredible people. I stopped playing relatively young, but I have no regrets about my football career.

More than anything, football gave me confidence that has stayed with me throughout my life. I went on to start my own business here in Sunderland, and I think those early experiences helped shape the person I am today. When you feel comfortable and can be yourself, without fear of judgement, you’re able to perform to your full potential.

That’s what the Foundation creates. It makes people feel welcome, whatever their background or circumstances, and gives them the confidence to be themselves. As someone who grew up here and has seen that work first-hand, I feel a real connection to the city and pride in what the Foundation has become.

I remember the Foundation before the Beacon of Light was even built, so seeing the difference it has made to Sunderland has been incredible. I’m proud to have played a small part in its history, alongside so many other people whose lives have been impacted by the organisation.

For the Foundation to still be here, supporting people across the city and wider region after 25 years, is something Sunderland can be really proud of. It’s the kind of place that, if it didn’t exist, you’d be begging for something like it.

- Jake Rowan, former Sunderland Deaf Team footballer who grew up participating in Foundation of Light.

Sunderland AFC can confirm that Marcus Neill has joined Morecambe on a one-month loan.

The 18-year-old, who signed his first professional contract in the summer – joins the National League North side until November 19.

Best of luck, Marcus!

Luke O’Nien believes Sunderland can take plenty of positives from Thursday’s UEFA Europa League draw with Lech Poznań as they prepare to return to Premier League action against Leeds United on Sunday.

The Black Cats shared the points in Poland, creating several opportunities to claim all three points, but O’Nien insists the performance provides a platform to build on ahead of the 4.30pm kick-off at the Stadium of Light.

“We created some chances, a couple off the post, some great saves from them and a few chances that went wide,” he said.

“As a defender, you want to keep the ball out of the net, but I don’t think we can be too disappointed. It shows how far we’ve come that we’re coming away from a game like that and everybody wants three points.

“We’ve got to keep tightening up, keep being us and take the positives into Sunday.”

Thursday’s fixture also provided a special moment for Timur Tutierov, who scored his first senior goal for the Club. O’Nien was full of praise for the forward’s dedication since joining Sunderland in 2023.

“I’ve seen how hard he’s worked over the last two or three years, every single day, and how hard he pushes the group,” he added.

“Seeing someone like that work so hard day in, day out, pushes me to the very limits. He always wants to do extras, so it’s no surprise to me that he’s coming onto the big stage and scoring goals."

O’Nien also paid tribute to the travelling Sunderland supporters, describing the atmosphere in Poland as an experience he would remember for a long time.

Your support has been nothing short of incredible! See you all back in Sunderland ❤️‍🔥 https://t.co/0kUk07kjqe

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) October 22, 2026

“Honestly, the atmosphere was phenomenal. I can only say thank you to both sets of fans. I’ve never seen anything like it before."

With Leeds United next up on Wearside, O’Nien believes Sunderland must return to the standards that brought success last season, maintaining their energy and intensity as they look to secure a positive result.

“There’s no magic formula apart from doing the things that brought us success last season and just doubling down on them,” he explained.

“At parts, we did that tonight. There are still parts we came away from it, and I just keep looking at that. What is us? What’s got us to this point? It’s doubling down on that.

“We’ve just got to keep tightening up, keep being us and keep doing it at high quality. We’ll get back to where we need to be.”

Sunderland return to Premier League action on Sunday as they welcome Leeds United to the Stadium of Light for a 4.30pm kick-off.

The Black Cats head into the fixture following a 1-1 draw against Lech Poznań in Poland on Thursday evening, with Timur Tutierov scoring his first senior goal for the Club to extend Sunderland’s unbeaten start to their UEFA Europa League campaign.

Régis Le Bris’ side will now turn their attention back to domestic action as they look to secure a positive result in front of their home supporters.

Sunderland v Leeds United

Premier League

Sunday 25 October, 4.30pm kick-off

Stadium of Light

Opposition

Leeds United travel to Wearside sitting seventh in the Premier League table, with ten points from their opening seven fixtures.

The Whites have scored nine goals and conceded six in the league so far, with their recent results including a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United and a 1-1 draw against Manchester United.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin leads the goalscoring charts for his side with three goals so far this campaign.

 

The Coach

Daniel Farke was appointed Leeds United manager in July 2023, having previously enjoyed successful spells with Norwich City, where he won two Championship titles, and Borussia Mönchengladbach.

The German guided Leeds to promotion in 2024/25, winning the Championship with 100 points before overseeing an encouraging first season back in the Premier League.

Farke strengthened across the pitch in the summer, bringing in goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City alongside defender Tarik Muharemović from Sassuolo.

Experienced centre-back Nico Elvedi and goalkeeper Michael Zetterer also arrived, while Wales international Harry Wilson joined on a free transfer following his departure from Fulham.

Leeds further bolstered their options with the loan signings of French duo Melvin Bard and Jean-Mattéo Bahoya, giving Farke additional depth in defence and attack ahead of the new campaign.

Team news

Régis Le Bris has confirmed that Brian Brobbey is expected to return to contention after a recent absence.

For Leeds, Dominic Calvert-Lewin faces a late fitness test, with Daniel Farke set to assess the striker ahead of Sunday's fixture.

Head-to-head

Sunderland claimed victory in the most recent meeting between the sides, winning 1-0 away at Elland Road in March 2026. Habib Diarra with the only goal.

The previous encounter at the Stadium of Light ended in a 1-1 draw in December 2025, while the sides also shared the points in a 2-2 Championship fixture in October 2024.

Fantasy Premier League

Brian Brobbey is Sunderland’s leading Fantasy Premier League points scorer so far this season, having collected 24 points following his hat-trick against Manchester City.

For Leeds, defender Jayden Bogle leads the way with 45 points, having made an impressive contribution at both ends of the pitch.

The FPL deadline is Friday 6.30pm.

Match officials

Referee: Stuart Attwell

Assistant referees: Constantine Hatzidakis and Nick Hopton

Fourth official: Andy Madley

VAR: Craig Pawson

Assistant VAR: Mat Wilkes

Régis Le Bris says Sunderland must show resilience and consistency as they prepare to welcome Leeds United to the Stadium of Light on Sunday (4.30pm GMT).

The Black Cats are looking to respond after a difficult recent run, with Le Bris confident the experience can help his group grow.

“It is important to stay resilient and show the character of the team,” Le Bris said.

“We have not liked the feeling recently, but it is a good experience and it can be the driver to get better. The challenge will raise our level.

“We have been through difficult situations before. The last five games in the Championship, for example, and we came out the other side.”

Le Bris believes the focus must remain on Sunderland’s own performance as they aim to return to winning ways in front of their home supporters.

“It is about reacting well and staying consistent,” he added.

“We have to stay connected with the scenario and the events. Overall, it is important for me to keep the consistency and lead the group.

“It is not about the opponent; it is about us and the choices we are making. The reality is that you can have a poor run. We are in this situation, but we will be stronger for it.”

Leeds arrive on Wearside having built momentum during the opening months of the Premier League season, but Le Bris believes his side have the quality to meet the challenge.

“Leeds are always a good side, from the Championship and now in the Premier League,” he said.

“They have built early-season momentum, but it is a new opportunity for us. We have a good mix of young and experienced players, and I am pretty sure we will be rewarded soon.”

Sunderland Women restart their Barclays Women’s Super League 2 campaign with an away trip to Ipswich Town on Sunday (2pm kick-off). 

After last weekend’s Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle, here’s everything you need to know... 

Opposition 

Heading into Sunday’s clash at the JobServe Community Stadium, Ipswich remain unbeaten in the Barclays WSL2, sitting third with 11 points from their opening five matches. 

The Tractor Girls have won their last three WSL2 matches – but fell to a penalty shoot-out defeat to Wolves in the Subway Players Cup last weekend. 

After a three-month interim spell, David Wright was announced as Ipswich Women’s Head Coach in April 2026 – leading the side to WSL2 safety in his first campaign. 

Ipswich finished ninth last season, one point behind the Lasses – but underwent a summer transformation with 13 new additions to their squad. 

Reay’s Pre-Match Thoughts 

After an unbeaten start to their WSL2 season, the Head Coach has called on the Lasses “to deliver” at the JobServe Community Stadium. 

Speaking to the press on Wednesday, Mel Reay said: “It was important for the new players to feel what a derby in the North East is all about. 

“We told the players that it’s a fans’ derby, as much as it’s our derby.  

“The fans want the bragging rights – and they’ve waited a long time for that moment.  

“It’s healthy competition at the moment.  

“Players are breathing down each other’s necks to get the nod – but the quality that was on show was really good.  

“Ipswich have a big squad, and have started the season well.  

“It’s a big game for us.  

“We know we have to deliver.” 

Ticket Information 

Tickets for Sunday’s clash at the JobServe Community Stadium remain available here, via Ipswich’s ticketing platform. 

Tickets are priced at: 

 

• Adult: £11
• Concession: £9
• Under-18: £6
• Under-11: Free 

 

Coverage 

Sunday’s match will be streamed live on the Barclays WSL2 YouTube channel. 

All updates will be found across the Club’s social media platforms and website. 

Trai Hume says Sunderland are determined to raise their standards as they prepare to face Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Black Cats host Daniel Farke’s side at the Stadium of Light, with kick-off at 4.30pm BST.

“We haven’t been at the standards we set last season, but we are all in agreement that we need to improve,” Hume said.

“It is about being hungry. We cannot take our foot off the gas at this level.

“We know the quality and experience we have in the changing room, and we are going to get back to that level.”

Sunderland welcome a Leeds side in encouraging form, with Hume expecting another demanding test against familiar opposition.

“It will be a tough game against Leeds,” he added. “We have played them a lot of times over the past three years.

“They are in very good form and we know the challenge ahead of us.”

The Northern Ireland international also highlighted the role of Sunderland’s supporters as the Lads look to respond on home soil.

“The supporters have been amazing and we know they will be right behind us,” he said.

“But we need to give them something to cheer on.”

Sunderland AFC players will warm up in special commemorative shirts ahead of Sunday's clash with Leeds United, celebrating 25 years of the Club's official charity, Foundation of Light.

The limited-edition hummel shirts have been created to mark a quarter of a century of changing lives across the North East, with the team proudly wearing them ahead of kick-off at the Stadium of Light.

Following the match, the players' warm-up shirts will be auctioned to raise vital funds for the Foundation, giving supporters the chance to own a unique piece of the charity's 25-year history.

With just 500 commemorative shirts produced, supporters can get their hands on a piece of Foundation history while stocks last. Available from Beacon of Light reception, shirts are priced at £35 for adults and £25 for children, with proceeds supporting the Foundation’s life-changing work across the North East.

Foundation Matchday marks the culmination of a special Founders' Week, celebrating the charity's impact on thousands of people and families across the region through education, sport, health and wellbeing.

Want to show your support? Whether you bid for a player's shirt, purchase your own or make a donation, every contribution helps the Foundation continue changing lives for the next 25 years. 

Every donation helps change a life, help us be there for the next person. Donate now >

Timur Tutierov admitted he had “goosebumps” after scoring his first senior goal for Sunderland in Thursday’s UEFA Europa League draw at Lech Poznań.

The 21-year-old headed the Lads into an early lead in Poland, meeting Nilson Angulo’s cross after just two minutes.

“It felt so good,” Tutierov said. “I had goosebumps.

“At first, I didn’t think I had scored, but then I did and ran to the cameras.”

Tutierov revealed his teammates had been encouraging him to picture the moment before the game.

“Yesterday, everyone said to me: imagine scoring a goal, because when the moment comes, you will put the ball in the net,” he added.

“That is what happened.”

The forward is determined to build on a memorable night and continue his development within Régis Le Bris’ squad.

“I have to keep working,” he said. “I want more from myself. I love this feeling and I want it again.”

Tutierov also praised the travelling Sunderland supporters after another vocal backing in Europe.

“The support was amazing,” he added. “From the moment I came to the Club, they have been great with me.”

Régis Le Bris says Sunderland will take lessons from Thursday’s UEFA Europa League draw at Lech Poznań after the Black Cats extended their unbeaten start to the competition.

Timur Tutierov’s first senior Sunderland goal gave the Lads an early lead in Poland, before Leo Bengtsson equalised in the second half to earn the hosts a point.

“We started really well,” Le Bris said. “We expected the atmosphere and their style of play.

“After the first goal, they showed they had the quality to play through our block and create chances. We deserved to score the second goal, but we didn’t, and then they came into the game.”

The Head Coach felt Sunderland were not quite as effective in their pressing as they had hoped, but stressed the importance of continuing to develop the team’s proactive identity.

“We need to be balanced in every phase of the game and we weren’t clean in our mid-press,” he added.

“It is a question of details and confidence sometimes. We want to stay true to our identity, be proactive and press when it is on to do it.

“We want to press high, but we are learning.”

Le Bris also praised Tutierov after the 21-year-old made his mark in the opening stages.

“Timur showed tonight that he is a good striker and a very hard worker,” he said.

“He is really well connected with the team and good at running in behind. He was tired at the end, but he had this opportunity and scored.”

Le Bris also paid tribute to the atmosphere created inside the Enea Stadion.

“The atmosphere was really nice,” he added. “We appreciated this one. It was really powerful with their fans.”

Sunderland AFC continued their unbeaten start to the UEFA Europa League with a 1-1 draw against Lech Poznań on Thursday evening.

Timur Tutierov headed the Lads into an early lead with his first senior goal for the Club, but Leo Bengtsson’s second-half equaliser ensured the points were shared in Poland.

Régis Le Bris made six changes to the side that faced AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday. Luke O’Nien and Dayann Méthalie came into defence, while Jules Ahoka started in midfield and Habib Diarra, Malick Fofana and Nilson Angulo supported Tutierov.

Sunderland made the perfect start in Poznań. With only two minutes played, Angulo delivered an inviting cross for Tutierov, who nodded home his first senior goal in red and white.

The Black Cats continued to create chances in a bright opening period, with Diarra, Ahoka and Fofana all going close. Poznań’s best opportunity of the first half fell to Daniel Håkans, who raced through one-on-one with Robin Roefs but fired wide of the post.

Sunderland almost doubled their advantage moments later. Fofana struck the inside of the post before teeing up Granit Xhaka, whose follow-up was held by the goalkeeper.

The hosts began the second half with greater purpose and Patrik Wålemark dragged an effort narrowly wide on 51 minutes. Le Bris turned to his bench on the hour mark, making four changes as Sunderland looked to manage a demanding schedule.

Poznań levelled with 20 minutes remaining when substitute Bengtsson reacted quickest after a corner fell kindly inside the area.

Roefs then produced an outstanding double save to keep the scores level as the home side pressed in front of a vocal crowd. Méthalie fired into the side-netting late on as Sunderland searched for a winner, but the Lads had to settle for a point.

The result leaves Sunderland unbeaten after three UEFA Europa League fixtures, with seven points on the board.