Sunderland coach Régis Le Bris: “It’s excellent news that Salis Abdul Samed is now fit

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris is thrilled that Black Stars midfielder Salis Abdul Samed is finally fit after joining the club in the summer.

The 24-year-old made his long-awaited debut for the Championship side in their 2-1 FA Cup loss to Stoke City on Saturday, January 11, 2025.

Samed, who is on a season-long loan from French Ligue 1 side RC Lens, marked his first appearance for Sunderland nearly five months after joining the club.

Speaking after the game, Le Bris said he was happy to have the experienced Ghana international available after his long spell on the sidelines.

When asked if it was a relief to have Samed available, he said, “Yes, sure. It’s good news because after six months of injury, it’s a great development for him.”

Despite his solid performance, Abdul Samed’s return was marred by a costly mistake in extra time.

His back pass allowed Stoke’s Niall Ennis to score the decisive goal, sealing Sunderland’s FA Cup exit.

While the result was disappointing, Abdul Samed’s promising return gives fans hope as Sunderland battles for promotion in the Championship.