Ben Kindon shines in Arsenal victory as Sunderland debut edges closer
Ben Kindon was on the score sheet as Sunderland Under-21s secured a 3-1 victory against Arsenal.
The mood on Wearside is as good as it has been all season, especially after Regis Le Bris’ side secured a 2-1 victory over Newcastle on Sunday afternoon.
And the Under-21s have built on that positive atmosphere with a 3-1 victory against the Gunners on Tuesday night.
Ahmed Abdullahi and Jenson Jones grabbed the other two goals, as Kindon put in a performance worthy of the Man of the Match award, and not for the first time this season.
The 19-year-old was heavily involved in the clash at Eppleton, and should that form continue, he may get the rewards from it.
Ben Kindon’s game by numbers vs Arsenal
At 19 years old, very few centre-backs have the level of composure on the ball that Kindon showed against a very solid Arsenal side.
He completed a remarkable 91 of his 101 attempted passes, with eight of his 13 attempted long balls also reaching a teammate.
| Sunderland 3-1 Arsenal | Kindon |
| Passes completed | 91 |
| Pass accuracy | 90% |
| Touches | 115 |
| Duels won | 4 |
| Calearances |
However, his physicality was also on show yet again for the Black Cats, with the teenager having won three of his four ground duels and one of his two in the air.
That has been a theme of his game all season in the Premier League 2, having won 66.4 per cent of his total duels this campaign.
Having only just turned 19 earlier this month, Kindon certainly looks to be a player for the future, and one that is worth keeping an eye on.
What else did we learn from Sunderland’s win vs Arsenal?
Aside from another impressive performance from Jones, who has already had attention from Le Bris, plenty of focus was again on Abdullahi.
His time on Wearside has been marred by injuries, but his season with the Under-21s has certainly benefited him.
It was his sixth goal of the season for Graeme Murty’s side, having only made four appearances, showcasing his clinical nature in front of goal.
A first-team chance may not come for him this season, but if he can stay fit, he may get his opportunity next time out.
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