Jenson Seelt says a loan move is possible as he looks to play regular football after coming back from injury.
Sunderland defender Jenson Seelt thinks a loan move is “an option” as the Black Cats restructure their backline for Premier League football – but he insists he’ll be ready if Régis Le Bris needs him on the first day.
The 22-year-old has appeared in preseason after missing the full senior 2024-25 season with a major knee injury. While Sunderland are anticipated to bring in top-level defensive reinforcements before the transfer window ends, Seelt has quietly impressed alongside Dan Ballard, demonstrating poise and better physicality following a lengthy absence, despite the Black Cats losing 3-0 to Hearts on Saturday.
Speaking after Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Hearts, the Dutch centre-back discussed the potential of a loan move, but was keen to emphasise that his main priority is to play football regularly and prove his health after a year of uncertainty.
“Yes, that is an option.” “We don’t know that yet,” Seelt remarked about a possible loan. “For me, the most important thing is to gain consistent play time and play a lot of games after a year out with an injury. We’ll see what is the finest choice in there.”
Seelt’s attitude and professionalism during pre-season have been quietly acknowledged within the club, and he confesses he’s simply relishing being back on the field, regardless of what happens next. “I’m just enjoying it right now. “I also need to be realistic,” he said.
Seelt went on to say, “They’re most likely going to bring in some new players as well. I’m feeling very good right now. Let’s see what happens. I simply strive to do my best. If I have to attend the first game, I will do so.” The former PSV Eindhoven defender joined Sunderland in the summer of 2022, although his time at the club has been interrupted by injuries.
Seelt says he’s feeling more confidence now that he’s returned to full fitness, and he thanks his fiancée, family, and the club for their support during one of his most difficult periods in his career.
“It wasn’t nice to have a year of knee insecurity.” But now I feel great, which is wonderful for me. It was quite difficult. I’m glad my girlfriend was with me in England; she was quite helpful. A large number of family members came over, which also helped. The club was always quite supportive. I’ve never felt lonely, despite your injury. Every day, you must face these difficulties and disappointments. But, in the end, we are here.”
Seelt also thanked Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris for his contribution to his progress since his arrival earlier this summer. “He is really supportive. Also, this season, he says a lot to me. We talk about the game. I hope he is pleased with me at the moment. Let us continue.”
Sunderland’s preseason campaign continues on Tuesday night with a trip to Hull City, followed by games against Real Betis, Rayo Vallecano, and Augsburg. The Premier League resumes to the Stadium of Light on Friday, August 16, with West Ham United visiting Wearside.
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