Regis Le Bris Sunderland Coach Says Middlesbrough Is Not Our Real Derby

## Regis Le Bris: Sunderland coach says 'Middlesbrough is not our real derby' Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has dismissed talk of a derby clash with Middlesbrough. - Le Bris was speaking ahead of Saturday's pre-season friendly between the two sides at the Stadium of Light. - The two clubs are set to meet in the Championship for the first time since 2017. - However, Le Bris insists that the game is not a real derby as Sunderland's main rivals are Newcastle United. "For me, Middlesbrough is not our real derby," said Le Bris. "Our real derby is Newcastle. Their fans wouldn't consider us a derby either, it's just a game against a team from the same area. "It's a friendly game, a pre-season game, and it's not a derby." Sunderland will be looking to build on their impressive pre-season form when they face Middlesbrough. The Black Cats have won two of their three friendlies so far, beating Gateshead and Burnley. Le Bris will be without several key players for the game, including Corry Evans, Dennis Cirkin, and Elliot Embleton. However, he is confident that his team can put in a good performance. "We're looking forward to the game," said Le Bris. "It's a good opportunity for us to continue our preparations for the new season. "We'll be without a few players, but we have a strong squad and we're confident that we can put in a good performance."