Le Bris on Ballard suspension, staying humble and 'stability'

Sunderland boss Regis le Bris has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League game against Manchester United at Stadium of Light (kick-off 15:00 BST).

Here are the key lines from his news conference:

• Apart from Romaine Mundle and suspended Dan Ballard, everyone is available confirmed Le Bris.

• The Sunderland boss admitted they are disappointed the appeal against Ballard's red card was rejected because the "situation was a bit unclear". He added: "I do think he tried to grab the shirt and in the duel, unfortunately, long hair got caught. It wasn't intentional and the law is the law so I understand the referee at one point but, at the same time, I think the rule, it's a bit unclear."

• On whether there is an opportunity for Lutsharel Geertruida: "Yes, it is an opportunity because we have had different options this season. He is versatile, a bit like Trai [Hume] so it's really useful for us because when we need somebody ready to play as a midfielder, left-sided centre-back, right-back, he can manage different positions."

• He was also asked about their outside chance of European football: "At the minute, it's really important to stay humble because I don't know if we started to dream after a good period, but as soon as you drop your level just by 10 per cent, the league is so demanding that you can't stay alive in the game."

• Before facing a "challenging" opponent in Manchester United, Le Bris said: "The players like a challenge, to be just on the edge, to show how good they can be. But it's also a question of togetherness, the connection between players and managing key moments."

• Le Bris said being "really disciplined, well-connected" and to work hard is key, as well as being "bold and creative" because "if you don't move, disturb the opponent, they will play in their comfort zone and I don't think we can play like that if we want to be competitive". He added they have to show "the best version of Sunderland".