Enzo Le Fee pictured back in Sunderland training in timely boost ahead of Newcastle clash
Enzo Le Fee has returned to training, with fans hoping he is fit enough to make the squad for Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby.
Sunderland have hit a wall when it comes to their form over the last few months, with injuries having played a significant role in that.
And one of those to have been sidelined recently is Le Fee, who has been one of the Black Cats’ most important players throughout the course of the campaign.
His absence was notable in Sunderland’s latest defeat to Brighton, with the Black Cats clearly suffering from the lack of progressive play that he so often brings to the team.
But the Frenchman has been pictured back in training ahead of their trip to Newcastle on Sunday, and if fit, it would be a major boost to their chances of victory.
Stats show why Enzo Le Fee return is needed for Sunderland
With five goals and four assists across all competitions, Le Fee leads the way for total goal involvement for Sunderland this season.
However, his impact goes far beyond that, with his presence on both sides of the pitch often crucial to Sunderland’s way of playing.
| Premier League | Le Fee |
| Goal contribvtiuons | 8 |
| Chances created | 35 |
| Tackles | 67 |
| Goal contributions | 119 |
Le Fee’s defensive work often goes unnoticed, with the Frenchman averaging 2.54 tackles per game as well as 4.66 successful duels.
With 1.37 chances created per 90, his creativity is often the key to unlocking defences, which has been an issue for months now at the Stadium of Light.
As showcased by his Sofascore graphic below, Le Fee also averages 1.84 key passes per game, which is the most of anyone in the Sunderland squad.
He thrives in all areas of his game, making his inclusion this weekend essential.
Who else could return for Newcastle clash?
Alongside Le Fee, Nordi Mukiele has been pictured at training ahead of this weekend’s game, which is another major boost, albeit for a very different reason.
Mukiele has been a rock at the back for the Black Cats this season, and without him in the defence, they have looked far more lightweight.
Sunderland are still awaiting to determine the fitness of Reinildo and Robin Roefs, both of whom have also played a key role this season.
However, with Dennis Cirkin having been named on the bench for the latest defeat to Brighton, Sunderland can at least rest assured knowing they have a fit left-back, even if Reindilo wasn’t to make it.
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