REGIS Le Bris admits there's a possibility Zak Johnson could leave Sunderland on loan this month - but the head thinks the young defender has a big future on Wearside.

Johnson played the full 90 minutes as the Black Cats were knocked out of the Carabao Cup at Preston on Tuesday night.

Johnson played right-back at Deepdale but Le Bris thinks the 19-year-old's best position is in the heart of the defence. He admits, however, that Sunderland's strength in that area of the pitch means a loan move might be the best course of action this season.

The teenager had two temporary stints away from the Stadium of Light last season, with a short spell with Hartlepool followed by a successful period with Dundalk.

And there'll be no shortage of takers if Sunderland sanction another loan.

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"He played as a right back today so it's a different position for him," said Le Bris after Tuesday night's game.

"Centre-back is his best position. He still wants to learn. He gives 100% all the time, I like this kind of player.

"The competition in this position is high at the club, so we'll see if it's better for him and the club to go on loan. But I like his personality, he's always involved in the game and training sessions."

One player who Sunderland have already made a decision on is Timothee Pembele, who wasn't involved at Preston.

The Black Cats want to send the 21-year-old out on loan this season but are still working on a move for the full-back.

Le Bris said: "Yes, we are looking for the possibility of a loan but nothing is close at the moment."