Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has provided an update on the fitness of summer signing Ian Poveda, confirming that the Colombian winger is close to making a return to training after missing the last two games.
This news comes as the Black Cats continue their strong start to the 2024/25 Championship season, having won five of their first six matches under the Frenchman’s leadership. They’re currently second in the Championship following their victory against Middlesbrough this weekend.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their attacking options heading into the season, particularly after Jack Clarke’s departure to Ipswich Town, Sunderland have been clinical in front of goal, netting 13 times in six games—more than any other side in the Championship so far. Le Bris has found success with the likes of Romaine Mundle and Patrick Roberts, but the return of Poveda could add even more firepower to their already impressive attack.
Ian Poveda Nearing a Return
Poveda, who was signed following a transfer battle with Sheffield Wednesday, has seen limited action so far due to fitness concerns, playing just 17 minutes of football this season. However, when asked about Poveda’s progress, Le Bris told Sunderland Echo, “I think he will be available for our next training sessions, yes.”
Although the winger’s return to training is a positive sign, it is expected that Poveda will be eased back into action cautiously, with Le Bris previously stating that he will not be rushed into match situations. Given his injury history and the time it has taken to get him near full fitness, Sunderland are likely to manage his workload carefully as he re-establishes himself in the squad.
Poveda’s technical abilities and flair, showcased during his time at Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United, have already given glimpses of what he can bring to the team. His skill set could offer Le Bris another exciting option in attack, particularly as an alternative to Mundle.
Who is Ian Poveda?
Ian Poveda’s professional journey began when he joined the youth academy of Brentford in 2014, after stints with Barcelona and Manchester City at the youth level. His technical ability and flair quickly made him one of Brentford’s most promising young talents. However, it was his move to Manchester City in 2016 that truly put him on the radar. Poveda developed under City’s elite coaching setup, making his first-team debut in January 2019 in a League Cup semi-final against Burton Albion.
Despite his undeniable potential, first-team opportunities were limited at City, prompting a move to Leeds United in January 2020. Under Marcelo Bielsa, Poveda showed flashes of brilliance, often used as an impact substitute during Leeds’ promotion-winning campaign. However, regular starts proved elusive, leading to loan spells in the Championship, including a half-season stint at Blackburn Rovers, and later at Sheffield Wednesday, where his creativity and dribbling caught the eye.
Writer’s View
The return of Ian Poveda could be a big boost for Sunderland, adding even more depth to an already flourishing attack. Le Bris has been wise in his approach, ensuring Poveda is not rushed back, and Sunderland fans should temper expectations for his immediate impact. Given that Poveda hasn’t started a Championship game in over five months, it’s clear the focus should be on getting him fully fit and integrating him gradually.
That said, once he is back to full match fitness, Poveda has the potential to offer something different to this Sunderland side. His pace, trickery, and ability to take on defenders will add to the unpredictability of the Black Cats’ attack. Le Bris has shown tactical flexibility so far, and with Poveda in the mix, Sunderland could be even more dangerous going forward as they push for promotion.
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