Granit Xhaka
Granit Xhaka’s performance during Sunderland’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday has captured the attention of football analysts and fans alike. The midfielder’s presence on the field is being hailed as a crucial element in Sunderland’s fight to remain in the league this season. Xhaka, who has been instrumental in recent matches, provided a stunning assist with a cushioned header that set up Wilson Isidor’s equaliser against Aston Villa.
Theo Walcott said: “It did surprise a lot of people when he joined Sunderland. But I feel if they want to break the pattern of staying in the league, I think he’s a major factor for them to do this. I think for me, it says it all – his leadership skills, the way he sets the behaviours, the patterns. The manager spoke about how the game plan had to change, and he’s a player that will be able to do that on the pitch, because he leads by example. And for me it’s his passion and his hunger, and just his bravery. He’s always willing to make those challenges.”
Walcott continued: “He’s a player that at times at Arsenal, you felt when he was higher up the field, he was kind of wasted. And then he came back towards the CDM position, and there was a different side of him. He could make those passes, make those tackles and break it up, because he was never the quickest player. But when he does find himself in the forward positions as well… It’s these behaviours where he just sets the press, he sets the tone and he sets the level of what he expects from his team. But for me, the biggest praise I can give him is his passion and his hunger and his fight. Everyone feeds off that…”
Assessing Xhaka’s role in Sunderland’s leveller against Villa, Walcott added: “This goal, this is such a difficult skill, but it’s like time slows down for him. And he cushions it, and that will be one of the best assists you’ll see this year. It really is. It’s incredible. I think you take that for granted, but that is an incredible goal. And I think he’s going to be so important for Sunderland to stay up this year.”
When asked what it was like to share a dressing room with Xhaka, Walcott continued: “To be fair, you could always hear him. No matter where you were in the training ground, you could hear him speaking to someone – if it’s with a member of staff, if it’s with a younger player, if it’s with an experienced player. And he was like that from day one. So for me, his experience is going to just set him alight here, that’s for sure.”
Xhaka’s transition from Arsenal to Sunderland has been marked by his ability to adapt and lead by example. His experience in Germany has further honed his leadership qualities, making him an invaluable asset to Sunderland’s squad. His ability to influence the game from a central defensive midfield position has allowed him to showcase his strengths in passing and tackling, while also setting the tone for his teammates. As Sunderland battles to maintain their league status, Xhaka’s influence both on and off the pitch could prove decisive.
About The Author
