Sunderland’s touring party in the United States received a positive signal from one of their midfield figures despite a 4-2 defeat to Liverpool in Nashville. Enzo Le Fée found the net for the Black Cats at Geodis Park and has publicly set himself the objective of scoring more goals in the forthcoming campaign.
Le Fée aiming for a higher goals tally
The French midfielder drew Sunderland level with a long-range strike shortly before half-time, cancelling out an early Liverpool opener in what was the club’s opening match of their US tour. Le Fée, who scored six goals in all competitions last season, believes the total did not reflect his attacking contributions and is determined to improve that return.
“It’s always nice. I don’t used to score a lot of goals, but this season I think I want to score more. It starts from the first game.”
Le Fée’s comments underline a clear personal target: to be more prolific in front of goal while also helping Sunderland control matches from a central position. His finish in Nashville — a notable long-range effort — provided an encouraging sign for supporters who will expect more end product from the midfield as the club prepares for life back in the Premier League.
Role change and implications for Sunderland’s midfield
Managerial decisions last season saw Le Fée used in a variety of roles; injuries among wide players pushed him to the left at times, but in the closing weeks he was moved into a more central, ‘number ten’ role. Against Liverpool he was again played infield, and indications are that he will occupy that position more regularly once competitive fixtures begin — starting with the opening league match against Ipswich Town next month.
- Positioning: Le Fée prefers playing centrally where he can influence tempo and retain possession.
- Scoring ambition: A conscious aim to increase goal tally above last season’s six strikes.
- Pre-season role: Used as an attacking midfielder in both of Sunderland’s friendlies so far this summer.
Wider squad context
The club’s coaching staff have previously described using Le Fée out wide as a temporary measure driven by the availability of wingers. With pre-season continuing, the club remains active in the transfer market and is expected to add at least one wide attacker this summer — a move that would both relieve positional pressure on Le Fée and increase options in wide areas.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pre-season match | 4-2 defeat to Liverpool at Geodis Park, Nashville |
| Le Fée goals last season | Six in all competitions |
| Likely opening league fixture | Ipswich Town (next month) |
For Sunderland supporters, Le Fée’s evolution into a central creative figure will be watched closely. His desire to add goals complements the club’s stated need for more attacking reinforcements on the flanks. If the coaching staff secure further wide recruits, it could allow Le Fée to consolidate in the attacking-midfield role the team appears to favour for him.
As the Black Cats’ preparations continue on the US tour, the message from one of their key midfielders is straightforward: greater attacking output from the centre of midfield will be expected as Sunderland aim to establish themselves at the highest level in the coming season.
