How Omar Alderete fared for Paraguay ahead of Sunderland return
Omar Alderete has been away on international duty this week.
Sunderland travel to face Crystal Palace this weekend, with hopes of winning their first away game of the season.
Alderete has already impressed at Sunderland, having played a key role in the wins against West Ham and Brentford so far.
The Paraguayan centre-back has been away on international duty this week, and what happened in the early hours of Wednesday morning will serve as a huge boost for the Black Cats.
Omar Alderete set to return unscathed and in form for Sunderland
Paraguay secured a big 1-0 win against Peru on Wednesday, and Alderete certainly more than played his part in the game.
Via Fotmob, the 28-year-old completed 89 per cent of his 46 attempted passes, with three long balls reaching their desired target.
Despite being strong defensively, Alderete has also showcased his ability going forward for the Wearsiders, and his 100 per cent shot accuracy for Paraguay amplified that.
Alderete won all but one of his aerial duels against Peru, making a remarkable nine clearances and two blocks to go along with it.
With Dan Ballard‘s return not yet confirmed, it was vital for Sunderland that they have Alderete back for the encounter with Palace, and they look to have achieved just that.
Sunderland stars have fared well over international break
Aside from Alderete, several Sunderland stars have impressed over the international break.
Trai Hume earned rave reviews for Northern Ireland, while the likes of Granit Xhaka and Chris Rigg have also been impressing.
Noah Sadiki sparked mixed reactions for DR Congo in their defeat to Senegal, but overall, it has been a break that has brought optimism to Wearside ahead of the return of Premier League football.
Le Bris’ main hope will have been to see his squad return unscathed, and as of yet, it seems as though no new injuries have been picked up, with those away having carried on their form that they have demonstrated at the Stadium of Light.
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