Lebrides: We need to gain experience against strong opponents.

Sunderland, currently training in the United States, will travel to Joda Park to face Premier League side Liverpool. Manager Lebrides stated that the players must demonstrate exceptional fighting spirit on the pitch and gain valuable experience against strong teams.

In the 2025/26 season, Sunderland, who were promoted to the Premier League, were regarded as dark horses with a series of brilliant performances, and eventually finished 6th and won a Europa League spot.

For Liverpool, Andoni Iraola from Spain has become the new manager of the "Reds". His main task at present is to build rapport with the players and improve the overall performance.

Sunderland manager Lebrides said, "This year's preseason preparations are a bit different from last season. We won't have as many new signings as last year, so the overall framework of the team is basically set, and a good team culture has been established."

"The most important thing now is to continue the team's development trajectory, and the players' physical condition needs to be improved step by step. However, everyone is already familiar with our tactical system, so the difficulty of the team to carry out various tasks has also been greatly reduced."

Lebrides said, "We need to gain experience against strong opponents, whether it's Liverpool, Leeds United, or Wrexham later on."

"Coming to the United States to experience such a completely new experience is a very positive thing for us. We know that Americans love sports and also appreciate the spirit of the underdog overcoming adversity."

In addition, Lebrides said, "When it comes to this fighting spirit, it also reminds me of Sunderland. No matter how strong the opponent, we always play with this belief."

“We must come together and give our all on the court. Coming to Nashville with that mindset is a very positive thing for us.”

Image source: Internet