Murat Yakin relaxed over Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka’s fitness ahead of Switzerland friendlies | OneFootball

Murat Yakin says he is relaxed about Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka’s fitness as the midfielder links up with Switzerland this week.

“I’m in close contact with Granit. I’m not worried; he knows his body. We’ll discuss how long he’ll play.” Xhaka recently missed five consecutive matches with an ankle injury but has started Sunderland’s last two, including Sunday’s 2-1 win at St James’ Park against Newcastle United. The comments were reported by Blick.

Xhaka is set to feature in friendlies against Germany on Friday and Norway on Tuesday.

If he features in both games, his senior cap tally would rise to 145. The 33-year-old debuted in 2011 and has captained Switzerland for eight years, scoring 16 goals.

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has underlined the midfielder’s impact on Wearside, describing him as top class and a natural fit for the club’s identity. He said Xhaka’s commitment, his ability to connect play in and out of possession, and his daily standards are driving a young squad, and that he leads by example.

Source: Sunderland Echo