Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka gives fitness update after early Switzerland withdrawal | OneFootball

Granit Xhaka says his half-time withdrawal for Switzerland was planned and not injury related after Friday's friendly against Germany.

According to Sunderland Echo, the Sunderland captain explained the change was agreed before kick-off. The 33-year-old had recently missed five matches with an ankle problem but has since started the Black Cats' last two, including the 2-1 win at Newcastle United at St James' Park.

He started against the four-time world champions and came off at the interval as scheduled. Switzerland were level at 2-2 at half-time, before losing 4-3.

Post-match, Xhaka framed it as a valuable test against a high-calibre opponent, noting lessons to take and praising Germany's composure under pressure.

He also accepted that recent sloppiness in possession went unpunished until faced with opposition of this level, which he said can decide a game.

Head coach Murat Yakin said earlier in the week he was in close contact with Xhaka, not worried, and that they would discuss his minutes. After the defeat he added that Switzerland have scarcely faced a team like Germany in almost two years, which limited their chance to play their usual game.

Source: Sunderland Echo