Granit Xhaka sends six-word message as Sunderland injury crisis worsens
Granit Xhaka has issued a message ahead of Sunderland’s game against Bournemouth on Saturday with plenty of injuries piling up in SR5.
The Swiss international found himself sidelined for four of the last five Black Cats’ matches, returning against Fulham in the 3-1 defeat.
Xhaka featured off the bench for just 19 minutes as he now eyes a first start since his return. In the games the midfielder missed, the Mackems managed just one win from four, with three losses included in that run.
The 33-year-old appears to be ready ahead of facing the Cherries, with his recent Instagram post relaying that focus, amid more news of injuries at the Stadium of Light.
Who is injured for Sunderland ahead of Bournemouth clash?
With Xhaka stating “all eyes on the next one”, it is a welcomed boost for Regis Le Bris to have his captain back available for selection.
After featuring against Fulham, it seems reasonable that he would now be ready to start against Bournemouth.
The Sunderland manager will need as many of his best and more experienced players at the ready, as he has plenty of concerns in his squad.
Brian Brobbey and Nordi Mukiele are set to be out “between two and four weeks”, according to Le Bris, as Romaine Mundle and Jocelin Ta Bi are set to be out for longer periods.
Additionally, Dennis Cirkin and Reinildo will not be available for the trip to the south of England.
It is not all bad news, as Bertrand Traore has also rejoined training ahead of the game against Bournemouth.
Overall, while Xhaka’s return is welcome, there are still many issues throughout the squad as it stands.
Brian Brobbey is the biggest blow – who can replace him?
Brobbey is perhaps the biggest blow for Le Bris, with the Dutchman starting the last 12 games for the Mackems.
It seems now that Wilson Isidor or Elizier Mayenda could have a chance to revive their career on Wearside.
The pair have been out of favour for quite a while and have been linked with moves away during the recent winter window.
When Brobbey went off injured against Fulham, both the Frenchman and Spaniard came on at the same time, so it is unclear who is further in the pecking order.
However, Isidor has played more games and been given more minutes as well as scoring more goals. It seems he is the more likely candidate to replace Brobbey.
For more Sunderland-related news, head over to Football Insider.