Régis Le Bris praised Sunderland’s response to draw 1-1 with Lech Poznan in the Europa League – and insisted recent Premier League defeats are no reason to doubt his players.
The Black Cats have endured a difficult spell domestically, but Le Bris believes their performances in Europe have shown what his squad are capable of.
“I think it was the right reaction,” Le Bris said.
“We played well against Torreense and Alkmaar too.
“Because we lost a few games in the Premier League, it doesn’t mean that the players or the team are weak. That is not the case.”
The Sunderland boss believes fine margins and confidence have played a part in their recent results and says European fixtures can help his side continue to develop.
“It is a question of details sometimes, and confidence as well,” he added.
“Those games are useful for the players and team to grow.”
Timur Tuterov put Sunderland ahead in Poland but substitute Leo Bengtsson’s second-half equaliser ensured the points were shared.