Rabat – Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has expressed his satisfaction with Chemsdine Talbi’s decision to remain at the club after the Moroccan international delivered the winning goal against Hull City in the League Cup.
Talbi started in an unfamiliar No. 10 role and scored in the 71st minute of Tuesday’s third-round tie at the Stadium of Light, finishing a counterattack with a delicate chip over Hull goalkeeper Dillon Phillips to secure a 1-0 win and Sunderland’s place in the last 16.
Speaking after the match yesterday, Le Bris said the situation surrounding the 21-year-old’s future had become much clearer following discussions during the closing stages of the transfer window.
“Now we have clarity, from his side, from our side, and we’re looking forward,” the Sunderland coach said.
Le Bris also praised Talbi’s versatility after deploying him centrally rather than in his usual wide position.
The French coach said the Atlas Lion showed that he can operate effectively as a No. 10, particularly during transitions when Sunderland regain possession and have space to attack.
He also pointed to Talbi’s ability to make repeated high-speed runs, carry the ball forward, combine with teammates and finish chances, qualities that were evident in the decisive goal against Hull.
Talbi’s performance came after several days of uncertainty over whether he would remain on Wearside.
Earlier in September, Le Bris acknowledged that a departure was still possible, saying Talbi had “huge potential” but that his future depended on confidence between the player and club.
The Moroccan was also left out of Sunderland’s 22-man Europa League squad while talks over a possible move continued.
Reports linked him with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad as well as Turkish clubs Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, whose transfer windows remained open after the English deadline.
Talbi ultimately stayed, and his cup performance offered an immediate response to the uncertainty.
