Granit Xhaka outstanding as 9/10 puts in stunning display – Sunderland player ratings vs Newcastle
Sunderland secured a famous Premier League victory over Newcastle United at the Stadium of Light, clinching a 1-0 win in the Wear-Tyne derby.
After Sunderland’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City last Saturday, the Black Cats took on their North-East rivals in a highly anticipated clash on Sunday afternoon.
Regis Le Bris’ side took the lead moments into the second half, as Nick Woltemade headed a Nordi Mukiele cross into his own net to spark scenes of joy at the Stadium of Light.
Newcastle tried to pile on the pressure in the closing stages, but Sunderland held firm to secure the bragging rights in the North East.
Granit Xhaka dominates the Newcastle midfield
Xhaka has been immense for Sunderland this season, and his brilliant form continued as Le Bris’ side dominated Newcastle in the centre of the park.
In a chaotic Wear-Tyne derby at the Stadium of Light, the Black Cats skipper brought an element of calm, dictating the play from his defensive midfield role.
Unsurprisingly, Xhaka was just as good off the ball, protecting the Sunderland backline with his usual aggressiveness and solidity.
The former Arsenal man is undoubtedly the most important player for Le Bris’ side, and he put in another massive performance against Newcastle.
Noah Sadiki shows Sunderland what they will miss
The derby was Noah Sadiki’s last Premier League game before joining up with DR Congo for the African Cup of Nations, and the midfielder showed Sunderland exactly what they will miss while he is away.
Alongside the calm and composed Xhaka, Sadiki brought an infectious energy to Le Bris’ side, giving the likes of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes no time to settle.
While it was a superb display from the 20-year-old, the Black Cats now need to find a way to replace him for the next few weeks.
Player ratings
Robin Roefs – 7
Nordi Mukiele – 8
Dan Ballard – 8
Omar Alderete – 7
Reinildo Mandava – 7
Granit Xhaka – 9
Noah Sadiki – 9
Bertrand Traore – 6
Enzo Le Fee – 7
Chemsdine Talbi – 7
Brian Brobbey – 8
Subs
Wilson Isidor – 7 (for Brian Brobbey 70′)
Trai Hume – 7 (for Bertrand Traore 70′)
Romaine Mundle – 6 (for Chemsdine Talbi 83′)
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