Amad Diallo reception shifts as Sunderland earn 0-0 against Manchester United and fans hail Lutsharel Geertruida | OneFootball

Sunderland held Manchester United to a 0-0 at the Stadium of Light, producing one of their strongest recent displays and fashioning the clearer chances as Régis Le Bris’ side pushed for a winner.

The hosts started the day 12th on 47 points from 35 matches, with United third on 64. According to Sunderland Echo, there were warm pre-match moments as Granit Xhaka and Bruno Fernandes embraced, while Robin Roefs and Senne Lammens also shared a handshake.

Sunderland pressed high from the off. After six minutes Fernandes passed straight out for a throw under pressure, then Noah Sadiki was denied by Lammens from Enzo Le Fée’s through ball. Amad Diallo was initially booed after slicing one wide, and a Sunderland handball appeal was checked by VAR before being waved away.

On 23 minutes Reinildo and Nordi Mukiele held an animated tactical chat, and Wilson Isidor’s warm-up drew applause despite exit links. By the 27th minute the mood towards Amad had flipped, with applause at a corner and a banner welcoming him home. Roefs suffered a slip before the break but continued, and the half ended goalless.

After half-time Lutsharel Geertruida stepped into midfield at times with Trai Hume dropping to right-back. Brian Brobbey was foiled by Lammens on 65 minutes, then Geertruida struck the post five minutes later. Amad received a standing ovation when substituted.

Late on, Fernandes was angered by Nilson Angulo but no foul was given, Hume made way for Eliezer Mayenda, and Roefs produced a vital intervention. Matheus Cunha was booked for diving and referee Stuart Atwell was booed at full-time.

Afterwards Amad chatted with Luke O’Nien on the pitch, while the Roker End serenaded Geertruida with calls to sign him amid uncertainty over his future.

Source: Sunderland Echo