Alan Shearer jokes about Sunderland supporters before rare praise vs Aston Villa
Alan Shearer is having to get used to discussing Sunderland after their brilliant start to the new Premier League season.
After Sunderland’s victory over West Ham on the opening day, the former Newcastle United striker shied away from speaking about his old rival altogether on Match of the Day.
However, away from the late-night television show, Shearer has praised Regis Le Bris’ side, highlighting that he picks and chooses his moments.
Now, the 55-year-old has reacted to the Black Cats’ latest performance against Aston Villa at the Stadium of Light, sealing a 1-1 draw despite having 10 men.
Alan Shearer gives Sunderland credit for Aston Villa result
Sunderland fought back to earn a point against Aston Villa, despite Reinildo being given his marching orders for kicking out at Matty Cash.
Despite having fewer players on the pitch, the Black Cats grew back stronger and heaped pressure on Emi Martinez’s goal.
However, Cash put the away side ahead with his long-range effort before Wilson Isidor salvaged a deserved point on Wearside.
- Sunderland have eight points from a possible 15
- They sit seventh in the table
- Unbeaten at home
Shearer was reflecting on a nightmare travel journey on The Rest Is Football before Gary Lineker brought up the Sunderland result.
Shearer joked: “The last one I remember was when I had to get on the train, at least there’s no Sunderland supporters this time as well.”
Lineker: “Oh, no, well, they drew.”
Shearer: “Yeah, good result, 10 men as well, good result for them.”
- Read more: Ally McCoist agrees with Jeff Stelling after what Robin Roefs did in Sunderland draw vs Aston Villa
Regis Le Bris and Granit Xhaka must be praised for halftime team talk
When Sunderland were reduced to 10 men, they would have been forgiven for surrendering all three points.
However, the complete opposite happened, and if anything, the Black Cats looked stronger despite the numerical disadvantage.
Le Bris’ men laid siege to the Villa goal in the second period and came close to taking the lead through Omar Alderete’s magnificent header.
Indeed, when they finally conceded to the Villans, they could have collapsed, but they never lost belief.
Whatever was said at the break worked wonders, and there is no doubt that Le Bris and Granit Xhaka would have delivered some inspiring words.
After the game, Le Bris revealed that Xhaka delivered a dressing room speech about Reinildo’s red card, highlighting how vital his leadership is.
While it is early days, the Wearsiders look more than at home in the Premier League, meaning Shearer will have to deal with talking about Sunderland.
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