An injury update on Sunderland defender Omar Alderete
Jermain Defoe has been speaking about Sunderland and their captain Granit Xhaka
The experienced midfielder has already established himself as a pivotal figure in Regis Le Bris’ squad this term, despite only arriving at the Stadium of Light during the summer transfer window.
And in Defoe’s eyes, his arrival was an ideal piece of business for a side intent reinvigorating themselves after a number of years struggling to regain their top flight status.
What has Jermain Defoe said about Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka?
Speaking to Sky Sports about Sunderland’s promising start to the new season, Defoe said: “I think the recruitment has been top, and it’s so important, isn’t it? I’ve always said that the club, back-to-back relegations and you find yourself in League One, but it’s a sleeping giant, with the fanbase and the football club. And I’ve always said, when it’s going well there, what a place to play football - these young players, a lot of energy, the belief.
“I think one of the key signings has probably been Granit Xhaka. I think he’s been amazing. I spoke to him over the summer about joining. He messaged me saying, ‘I’ve got a chance of joining, what do you think?’. I said, ‘You have to. With your experience and what you can bring to this young group of players...’ But what a start to the season, it’s been fantastic.”
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join ourSAFC WhatsApp channel.
What else has been said about Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka?
Elsewhere, former Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce has also lavished praise on Xhaka for the impact that he has made in the North East. Speaking on talkSPORT about the 33-year-old, he said: “He looks top drawer. I mean, well, he's always looked top drawer, but probably looks more outstanding at Sunderland than he did at Arsenal, perhaps, because there was obviously - without disrespecting the Sunderland players - but better players around him at Arsenal, of course.
“He is, from his experience and what he knows and the position he's been played in by the manager, he's just outstanding. And a leader. He looks like that leader, you know what I mean? That one where he can control other players on the pitch. The one the manager loves. Instead of screaming and shouting from the touchline, they know he can leave it to him and he'll sort it out. And his passing game and his composure, for me, is outstanding.”
Continue Reading