Granit Xhaka says half-time Switzerland change was planned amid Sunderland return | OneFootball

Granit Xhaka has delivered a positive fitness update after going off at half-time for Switzerland in their 4-3 friendly defeat to Germany on Friday. The Sunderland captain moved to calm any concern over his condition.

According to Sunderland Echo, the 33-year-old missed five consecutive club matches with an ankle injury but has since started Sunderland’s last two, including Sunday’s 2-1 win at St James’ Park against Newcastle United.

Xhaka started against the four-time world champions, then made way at the interval as planned. He said the change had been agreed beforehand and that there was no new setback.

Head coach Murat Yakin had offered a similar message earlier in the week, saying he was in close contact with Xhaka, was not worried and that they would decide his minutes together.

After the match Xhaka focused on the level of the opposition, noting Switzerland could take lessons and praising Germany’s composure under pressure. He added that recent lapses on the ball had gone unpunished, but against this calibre they can cost you.

Yakin reflected that Switzerland had not faced a team like Germany for almost two years, which limited their ability to impose their usual game.

Source: Sunderland Echo