Sunderland head into the November international break with renewed optimism following a much-needed 1-0 victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light, a result that has eased some of the pressure surrounding Régis Le Bris.

The Black Cats remain in a difficult position in the Premier League, and one victory does not erase the concerns that have emerged during a disappointing start to the campaign. However, Sunday's performance offered a reminder of the qualities that helped Sunderland finish seventh last season.

With a trip to Aston Villa awaiting on November 21, James Copley looks at eight reasons Sunderland supporters can feel more positive about the weeks ahead.

1. Sunderland rediscovered their identity

Perhaps the biggest positive was that Sunderland finally looked like Sunderland again. The grit, determination, defensive organisation and willingness to fight for every ball that characterised last season's success were all evident against Chelsea.

It wasn't always pretty, but it didn't need to be. Sunderland worked relentlessly, defended their penalty area and demonstrated a collective determination that had been conspicuously absent in recent weeks. Crucially, the players showed they are still fighting for Le Bris, and there is plenty left in this team. Sunderland also could have scored more, with Brian Brobbey missing two big chances and Wilson Isidor seeing another saved. It was heartening to see Sunderland creating chances from open-play again.

2. Jules Ahoka has given Le Bris a genuine selection dilemma

What a performance from Jules Ahoka. The 20-year-old was outstanding on his first Premier League start of the season, displaying remarkable maturity, energy and composure against formidable opposition.

His emergence could be hugely significant. Sunderland were arguably too reliant on Granit Xhaka last season, but Ahoka now looks capable of providing genuine competition in midfield. Whether he plays instead of the captain or alongside him, Le Bris suddenly has another exciting option at his disposal.

3. Granit Xhaka has an opportunity to recover

Nobody wants to see Sunderland's captain injured, particularly given his importance to the team, but there could be a small silver lining to his early withdrawal against Chelsea. Xhaka has endured a demanding schedule, and the international break offers an opportunity to recover rather than adding more minutes with Switzerland.

The hope will be that his calf problem is not serious and that some much-needed rest allows him to return refreshed. His experience, leadership and quality remain important assets, even if his performances have dipped this season.

4. Brian Brobbey looks an absolute handful again

Brobbey was magnificent against Chelsea. His physical strength, hold-up play and relentless willingness to battle defenders were central to Sunderland's victory, while he also won the penalty converted by Enzo Le Fée.

He could easily have scored another couple, but the broader performance was enormously encouraging. At times, Brobbey looks virtually unplayable when he gets his body between the ball and a defender. After his recent injury issues, seeing him back to something approaching his best is a significant boost. Sunderland must now keep him fit.

5. Nordi Mukiele's return changes everything defensively

It is difficult to overstate just how important Nordi Mukiele is to Sunderland. There is a genuine argument that he is among the finest defenders to represent the club during its Premier League years. His return against Chelsea was enormous.

Mukiele brings athleticism, intelligence, leadership and a willingness to take responsibility, while his partnership with Luke O'Nien helped Sunderland rediscover some much-needed defensive solidity. There is a confidence about Sunderland's back line when the Frenchman is involved. Keeping him available could make a substantial difference over the coming months.

6. Sunderland's established performers stepped up

It wasn't just Brobbey and Mukiele. Several players who were so important last season produced performances much closer to the standards Sunderland supporters have come to expect. Reinildo Mandava was superb, Trai Hume was excellent and O'Nien stepped up when his team needed him.

Noah Sadiki brought energy in midfield, while Le Fée provided the decisive contribution from the penalty spot. That collective improvement matters. Sunderland's struggles have never been about one player, and their recovery will require contributions throughout the team. Sunday demonstrated that the quality has not simply disappeared.

7. Régis Le Bris has some much-needed breathing space

Had Sunderland lost against Chelsea, the international break could have been a deeply uncomfortable period for Le Bris. Questions about his future would inevitably have intensified, with almost two weeks to dissect another disappointing result.

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Instead, he has an opportunity to reset with some of the pressure lifted. The victory does not solve everything, but it provides a platform to build upon and gives the head coach valuable time to work on tactical adjustments. Just as importantly, it should restore some confidence among the players. Sunderland can approach the Aston Villa game looking forward rather than constantly over their shoulders.

8. Injured players are moving closer to returning

Sunderland have been forced to cope without several influential players, with Dan Ballard and Habib Diarra among those currently sidelined. Le Bris has indicated that Ballard is progressing towards a return to training around mid-December, while Diarra's latest muscle problem has been given an initial recovery estimate of approximately six weeks.

Neither is expected to feature against Aston Villa, but their eventual returns should strengthen Sunderland's options significantly. With the demands of Premier League, Europa League and domestic cup football continuing, additional depth will be invaluable.