Granit Xhaka’s gesture to Nordi Mukiele sums up his importance to Sunderland
Granit Xhaka was the first to comfort Nordi Mukiele after he was forced off with an injury for Sunderland.
The Black Cats had started their clash with Fulham fairly well, but an injury to Mukiele sparked fear, and that was confirmed when the Frenchman was left with no choice but to go to ground after initially trying to play through the pain.
No one was near Mukiele at the time of his injury, and it’s common for those types of injuries to be the most severe, though the hope will be that it isn’t.
Mukiele was visibly emotional when walking towards the tunnel after being replaced by Lutsharel Geertruida, with Xhaka coming away from the dugout to hug the Frenchman, and presumably pass on some comments of encouragement.
The Swiss midfielder had spent time on the sidelines himself before making his return to the squad for Sunday’s clash.
Sunderland are slowly entering injury crisis time
Mukiele has been one of Sunderland’s best players this season, and in terms of how they play, he has easily been one of the most influential.
With four assists already, Mukiele’s impact in transition is clear, but he has more than proved his worth with his defensive contributions.
The hope will be that his injury is a minor one, especially with Dennis Cirkin and Reinildo already out injured.
Mukiele’s replacement would typically be Trai Hume, but the Northern Ireland defender has had to cover on the opposite side in the absence of Cirkin and Reinildo.
Cirkin is due back from his slight knock soon, but it is a major concern for the Black Cats nonetheless.
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Regis Le Bris may be forced to revert to previous tactic
If Mukiele is to be out for a substantial amount of time, Regis Le Bris may have to revert to a formation that utilises three centre-backs.
It would see Geertruida play on the right, with Dan Ballard and Omar Alderete alongside him.
Sunderland have set up that way already this season, but most notably against the stronger sides like Arsenal and Manchester City.
If so, it would provide added importance to the wing-backs to support at both ends of the pitch.
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