Gus Poyet on why Brian Brobbey is such a rare threat for Sunderland | OneFootball

Former Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has hailed Brian Brobbey’s old-school centre-forward play after the Dutchman struck in the 90th minute to clinch a 2-1 derby win at St James’ Park, a match in which he persistently unsettled Newcastle’s defence.

Brobbey has six goals since a deadline-day switch from Ajax last summer. Speaking on The Rest Is Football, Alan Shearer also singled him out as Sunderland’s standout in the derby.

Poyet said he first took real notice during his spell with Greece, recalling Brobbey being in the Netherlands squad as a substitute, if his memory is right, and stressing his power and usefulness.

He feels the game has drifted from that profile, with many strikers told to drop or run in behind. Brobbey can pin defenders and protect the ball, offering Sunderland a rarer option.

He also praised Brobbey’s graft, saying it can be overlooked when he does not score, and felt that derby winner was especially important, as his celebrations showed.

The pundit said the £17 million fee from Ajax looks smart business, contrasting it with Newcastle’s summer outlay on forwards and their inconsistency.

He felt Sunderland wanted it more after the break, were the better team and deserved to win, and said Eddie Howe got it wrong and could not lift his players.

Brobbey’s form has also been recognised by Ronald Koeman, who has recalled him to the Netherlands squad for the first time since March last year.

Source: Sunderland Echo