SUNDERLAND have confirmed the appointment of Regis Le Bris as their new head coach.

Le Bris has been confirmed as the permanent successor to Michael Beale, who was dismissed in February, with Sunderland having agreed a settlement with his previous employers, Lorient.

The 48-year-old’s appointment ends a recruitment process that turned into something of a tortuous process, with the Black Cats initially trying to appoint Will Still.

Still eventually opted to take over at French club Lens instead, leading Sunderland to turn to Le Bris, who was always on their five-man shortlist of potential options.

The Black Cats had to go to an appeal to secure a work permit for the Frenchman, which caused a delay in confirming his appointment, and also had to negotiate a compensation settlement with Lorient.

That has all now been agreed though, and Le Bris will officially start work on July 1, having signed a three-year contract on Wearside.

Le Bris said: “I am honoured to be joining Sunderland AFC and look forward to immersing myself in the culture of the club and the city.

“I believe the best way to understand and appreciate what makes a club unique is to connect with the people who embody its spirit - the supporters, the community and all those who contribute to its character.

“All coaches talk about their enthusiasm and vision when they start a new role. I'm certainly here to pass on my energy and my convictions, but also to listen and learn.

“The history of this club is very strong, and this is a unique opportunity to be part of that legacy. I recognise the potential of our team, a group that has seen both successes and more difficult times.

“Our journey together has only just begun, and I am ambitious about what we can achieve. I want us to bring joy to our fans, not only through results, but also through our style of play, and I'm convinced that with commitment and hard work, we can write an exciting new chapter.”

After a decade-long coaching career in the academy at Lorient, Le Bris took charge of the Ligue 1 club’s first team two seasons ago.

His first campaign in charge was hugely successful, with Lorient finishing an impressive tenth in the French top-flight, but last season was more difficult, with the club suffering relegation to the second tier.

Nevertheless, Le Bris’ stock remained high, with Nice attempting to appoint him during last season, only to be put off by the buyout clause in the Frenchman’s contract, which was reported to be worth €5m.

Sunderland sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, said: “We are delighted to have attracted someone of Régis’ calibre to Sunderland.

“He is a talented coach, who is thoughtful and detailed in his approach and values strong relationships with players and staff.

“He is aligned with delivering our playing identity and he shares our ambition to win, as well as our passion for talent development.

“We are excited by the new ideas Régis will bring to Sunderland and look forward to supporting him in his new role.”

Sunderland owner, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, was similarly effusive, adding: “I must start by thanking our fans for their patience and support throughout an extensive recruitment process.

“It was imperative for us to try and appoint a candidate who could build on the foundations we have established and play an integral part in fulfilling our long-term ambitions.

“After following Régis’ career in recent years and meeting with him extensively, we believe he can make that contribution and we are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland AFC.

“I’m looking forward to the 2024-25 season and excited for us all to be back together at the Stadium of Light in August.”