‘Outstanding’ Granit Xhaka praised as Sunderland warned over keeping summer signings | OneFootball

Sunderland have been warned they could struggle to keep some of this season’s standout signings, while Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has been hailed for a transformative first year.

Speaking to Sunderland Echo, former midfielder Tommy Miller described Xhaka as outstanding and said the Swiss midfielder’s arrival became the catalyst for Sunderland’s push under Regis Le Bris. He felt eyebrows were raised at the move, but said Le Bris recognised the jump from the Championship and made tough calls on promotion winners.

The former Arsenal captain returned to the Premier League from Bayer Leverkusen, settled quickly and has been central to a side now three points off the top seven. Sunderland visit already relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday as they chase European football next season.

Miller, recently confirmed as Spennymoor Town manager on a full-time basis, praised the recruitment and said the challenge could be retaining Robin Roefs, Omar Alderete and Noah Sadiki. He also highlighted the impact of Enzo Le Fee and Brian Brobbey.

Xhaka will hope to cap his first season on Wearside by helping secure only the second European campaign in the club’s history, which could in turn prompt another lively summer window as Le Bris’ side target progress on multiple fronts.

Source: Sunderland Echo