Former Sunderland defender Wes Brown has praised manager Régis Le Bris for leading the club to an impressive Europa League qualification last season, while also highlighting the challenges that lie ahead for the team in the upcoming campaign.

Brown, who spent 15 years at Manchester United prior to joining Sunderland and made 76 appearances for the Black Cats under five different managers, credited Le Bris’s leadership as a key factor in the club’s unexpected success. Speaking in an interview, Brown emphasized the commitment shown by the players and the positive atmosphere around the team, which contributed to their strong start and sustained performance throughout the season.

“They were flying early on, fighting near the top, and everyone understood what needed to be done,” Brown said. He noted that while the crowd support played a role, it was the players’ hard work and unity that stood out. Securing a spot in European competition marked a significant achievement for the club, something Brown described as a well-deserved bonus after a period of rebuilding.

Looking ahead, Brown warned that Sunderland would face greater difficulties this season, particularly due to the increased demands of playing in both domestic and European competitions. “The second season is probably always the hardest,” he stated, suggesting that Le Bris and his squad will need to raise their efforts to maintain consistency and avoid the pitfalls often associated with a following campaign.

Addressing concerns about “second-season syndrome,” Brown suggested that Le Bris might need to adapt his approach, particularly in terms of tactical flexibility and player recruitment. While some new signings could present challenges, Brown believes the club’s recent success has made Sunderland an attractive destination for prospective players. “This season’s all about being steady in the league, staying away from the bottom area, and building slowly but surely,” he explained.

Brown also identified squad depth as a potential issue, warning that injuries to regular starters could strain the team’s capacity to compete. He stressed the importance of maintaining the same attitude and determination throughout the squad, with players ready to step up when called upon.

Regarding Le Bris’s management style, Brown noted that while all managers differ, the French coach stands out for the confidence he instills in his players. “You can see he backs the players, and that means a lot,” Brown remarked. He added that the positive relationship between the manager and the team contributes to a strong dressing room environment, which is crucial for Sunderland’s ambitions moving forward.