Jules Ahoka impresses Regis Le Bris as DR Congo youngster makes strong Sunderland debut

Jules Ahoka has received a glowing assessment from Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris after making an impressive first-team debut in the Black Cats’ 1-0 Carabao Cup victory over Hull City.

The 20-year-old DR Congo youth international was given the difficult task of filling the midfield position normally occupied by captain Granit Xhaka, but he responded with a confident and energetic performance.

Ahoka, who joined Sunderland after breaking through with Belgian top-flight side Royal Antwerp last season, showed his quality across the 90 minutes and gave Le Bris plenty of encouragement about his potential.

He recorded three shots, including one on target, while completing 55 passes at an impressive 87.7 per cent accuracy. He also made 77 touches, completed a successful dribble, won seven aerial duels, and contributed three tackles, three interceptions and five clearances.

For Le Bris, however, it was Ahoka’s personality and physical presence that stood out most.

“Really positive. In this position, it’s not easy because the designated player is captain Granit Xhaka, who has huge experience,” Le Bris told Flashscore.com during his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunderland’s meeting with Arsenal.

“When you come after Granit, you know it is not an easy task and you have to show personality, character and confidence. I think he did that really well.”

Le Bris impressed by Ahoka’s physical qualities

The Sunderland boss admitted there were uncertainties surrounding how the youngster would cope with the demands of senior football, particularly when replacing an experienced player such as Xhaka.

Ahoka nevertheless settled quickly and demonstrated the attributes required to operate effectively in the middle of the pitch.

“I was really pleased with his character and the confidence he (Ahoka) showed. He also has good physicality, which is important in that position. His ability to head the ball, win ground duels and cover space was really good.”

Despite the encouraging debut, Le Bris is reluctant to place unnecessary pressure on Ahoka by immediately throwing him into regular Premier League action.

The French coach believes Sunderland must manage the midfielder’s development carefully while allowing him to adapt to the intensity and expectations of England’s top flight.

Sunderland will take patient approach

Le Bris says Ahoka will be introduced gradually, with the club keen to ensure that his progress is not disrupted by the demands of Premier League football.

“Step by step. The competition is high, and that is good for our squad. We don’t need to rush the process for a young player,” he said.

The manager wants Ahoka to accumulate minutes at the appropriate moments, allowing him to build confidence and become increasingly comfortable with the demands of senior football.

“We should give him minutes when the situation is right, so he can build confidence and gain the right references.”

Le Bris explains Sunderland’s African focus

Ahoka’s arrival and impressive debut also underline Sunderland’s growing commitment to recruiting from Africa, with around 10 players of African origin currently part of the club’s first-team group.

Le Bris, who worked extensively with African players during his time in France, believes the continent offers a deep pool of players with qualities that suit the demands of English football.

“I think Africa is impressive in terms of the talented players it produces,” he said.

“In France, I used to work with many African players, so I know the versatility they can bring.”

The Sunderland manager also highlighted the physical and technical attributes he believes make African players attractive to the club.

“(Africans) have power, speed and intensity, as well as a great understanding of the game. There are so many good players across Africa, so it is a privilege to have them in our team.”

Ahoka will now hope his impressive cup debut can help him push for further opportunities as Sunderland prepare to host reigning Premier League champions Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats head into Saturday’s encounter after drawing 1-1 with Brentford and having won their previous two league matches at home against Chelsea and Fulham.

They are seeking three consecutive Premier League victories at the Stadium of Light for the first time since January and February 2012, when they defeated Manchester City, Swansea City and Norwich City.