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

Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka is set to remain at the club this summer, a decision welcomed by Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith amid firm interest from Chelsea.

"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 told DAZN.

The Swiss midfielder had been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge last month, with Chelsea lodging an eight million pound bid.

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 added: "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 is next in action in the early hours of Sunday, when Switzerland face Argentina in the World Cup last eight.

Source: Sunderland Echo