Sunderland make Regis Le Bris decision with club rock-bottom of Premier League

Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris is set to remain in post despite a dismal start to the season, with the club rock-bottom of the Premier League after just one win from nine matches. PAreported on Monday that the Frenchman retains the full support of the club's board and remains central to their plans, having come under increasing pressure during that dire run.

Saturday's 3-1 defeat atCoventryextended Sunderland's winless league run to seven games, while they have collected just one point from five on the road. The club's hierarchy recognise fans' frustrations and share their disappointment with some below-par performances, but believe Le Bris can turn their fortunes around.

The former Lorient head coach's stock could not have been much higher in the summer. After leading the club to promotion via the play-offs, he guided them to an impressive seventh-placed finish in their first season back in the top flight after an eight-year absence, delivering European football for the first time in 53 years.

While their domestic form has been dispiriting the Black Cats have made an unbeaten start to theirEuropa Leaguecampaign, with wins againstAZ Alkmaarand Torreense and more recently a draw in Poland against Lech Poznan. The added fixtures appear to have taken a toll on the players' top-flight performances, but Sunderland's hierarchy feel their ambitions are best served by maintaining stability and adopting a collective responsibility.

The Black Cats are next in action on Thursday against Europa League opponentsDinamo Zagrebat home before they face Chelsea at theStadium of Lightin the Premier League on Sunday.