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

Granit Xhaka has played down fitness concerns after his half-time withdrawal in Switzerland’s 4-3 defeat to Germany, saying the change had been agreed in advance and did not indicate a setback.

According to Sunderland Echo, the Sunderland captain recently missed five matches with an ankle injury but has started the Black Cats’ last two, including a 2-1 win at St James’ Park against Newcastle United. He also began for Switzerland at the weekend.

Asked about Switzerland’s display without him, Xhaka said that was for others to judge. He called it a valuable test against a high-calibre opponent and noted Germany’s composure under pressure.

Head coach Murat Yakin had earlier explained he was in close contact with Xhaka, was not worried and would discuss his minutes with the player.

Some continental observers felt Switzerland were noticeably less organised without their captain, a view underlined by defeat after being level 2-2 at the interval.

Xhaka reflected that recent wastefulness on the ball had often gone unpunished, but Germany capitalised. Yakin agreed, saying the calibre of opposition limited Switzerland’s ability to impose their usual game.

Source: Sunderland Echo