As the holder of not merely a doctorate in human physiology and biomechanics but a diploma in the mental preparation of elite athletes, Régis Le Bris is a slightly unusual Championship manager.

Given that Sunderland’s 48-year-old head coach first took charge of a senior team only two years ago, eyebrows were raised when the Frenchman who had just choreographed Lorient’s relegation from Ligue One swapped Brittany for Wearside this summer.