Régis Le Bris urges patience over Senegalese midfielder Habib Diarra’s return

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has urged caution over Habib Diarra’s recovery, stressing the club will not rush the Senegalese midfielder back into action.

Diarra, who joined Sunderland from RC Strasbourg in the summer, impressed early in the season before suffering a serious injury during training on the eve of the match against Aston Villa.

He underwent successful surgery and is now in the final phase of rehabilitation.

Yes, he’s doing well. We’re not going to rush things because it was a significant injury. He’s still young, he’s doing well, and we won’t force him to come back, said Le Bris ahead of Sunderland’s Premier League clash with Arsenal on Matchday 11.

The 20-year-old had recently announced his target to return by mid-December, possibly for Sunderland’s fixture against Newcastle.

However, Le Bris made clear that the player’s long-term fitness remains the priority.

Having quickly adapted to Le Bris’s system before his setback, Diarra’s absence has been felt in midfield.

Sunderland continue to monitor his progress closely, with medical staff confirming that his recovery is on track and within the expected timeline.

While supporters are eager to see Diarra back on the pitch, the club insists that his return will only come once he is fully ready to handle the physical demands of the Premier League.