Hume returned to the Academy of Light early from international break, leaving the Northern Ireland squad because of a hip problem.
It’s not a new injury, with Hume having managed the issue for a number of weeks and intending to do the same between now and the end of the season.
But the problem did result in Hume having to sit out of training sessions at the end of the week, with the full-back only training briefly with the first team squad on Friday.
But that didn’t stop him from delivering a typically fine performance on Saturday, even though he was playing in an unfamiliar role at left-back in the absence of Dennis Cirkin and Leo Hjelde.
And it was Hume who lashed in the volley that turned out to be the winning goal against the Lions.
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“It was a great goal and he was consistent again,” said boss Le Bris.
“He always plays at a very impressive level. He can pick up different positions, he is very important to us. And if he scores, it’s even better.
“He didn’t train a lot this week, only part of the session yesterday. He’s a warrior.
“He’s a very strong character. He always wants to play. These kinds of players are very important because they are always consistent and good from a football perspective.
“But his mindset is very strong and he shows the importance of consistency. Even with the pain and a small injury, he can play and he’s well connected with the team.”
With Hume moving over to left-back, Alan Browne dropped back from midfield to right-back and was rock solid, despite the fact he was playing out of position, contributing to what was only Sunderland’s second clean sheet in 11 games.
Le Bris said: “I’m really pleased. For fans and journalists, the question was massive before the game, who will play right and left-back.
“We found a solution with Browney and Trai off the left. Browney is versatile, experienced and well connected with the team. He always wants to give his best. He played well today against a specific winger.”
Sunderland now have a full week on the training pitch before Saturday’s game against West Brom, where Le Bris expects to welcome Hjelde and Enzo Le Fee back into his squad.
