Alan Smith hails ‘big boost’ as Granit Xhaka decides to stay at Sunderland | OneFootball

Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka is set to remain at the club this summer, a decision Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith says is a big boost amid strong interest from Chelsea, who lodged a £eight million bid last month.

“Sunderland has been my home since day one. We are all very happy. I decided to stay where I am; family is the most important thing. I am ready to make history with them.” He was speaking to DAZN after helping Switzerland reach the World Cup quarter-finals.

Alan Smith said: “It was going to be an underwhelming start to the season if he was to leave after the excitement of last year. So that’s encouraging. The fans will be delighted and so will the manager and the players.”

“He’s showing for Switzerland again what a good and important player he is, what a great influence off the pitch as well, I’m sure. So big boost for Sunderland that.”

Xhaka and Switzerland face Argentina in the early hours of Sunday morning in the last eight of the World Cup.

Source: Sunderland Echo