Sunderland player ratings vs Manchester United – Brian Brobbey a handful, Granit Xhaka with captain’s performance
Sunderland put another Premier League point on the board on Saturday, playing out a 0-0 draw with Manchester United.
The clash remained tight for large periods, with neither the Black Cats nor the visitors gaining full control of proceedings.
Regis Le Bris’ side did have their moments though, with half-chances for Chemsdine Talbi and Noah Sadiki in the first half – both of whom should have done better.
The result leaves the Wearsiders sitting 12th in the Premier League, meaning that a European spot is incredibly unlikely with just two matches to go.
Looking back on the clash at the Stadium of Light, Mackem News gives our player ratings.
Brian Brobbey a handful once again
Since his summer move from Ajax, Brian Brobbey has become a real fan favourite on Wearside, and it is easy to see why on days like today.
While the Dutchman is not a natural goalscoring number nine, his presence is simply incredible.
| Brian Brobbey Premier League stats | |
| Appearances | 28 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 1 |
Bullying Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez for large periods, the towering forward was the go to man for Le Bris’ side throughout.
He consistently pulled both United centre-backs out of position, though those around him were unfortunately unable to capitalise, while he forced Senne Lammens into a superb second half save.
The Black Cats will undoubtedly be looking at the striker market over the coming summer window, though Brobbey’s overall impact remains fantastic, while he could prove a superb option off the bench should a more recognised goalscorer make the move.
Granit Xhaka puts in a captain’s performance in Sunderland midfield
As has been the case for the entirety of the season, Granit Xhaka was superb in the middle of the park for Sunderland.
Arriving from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, the experienced midfielder has completely surpassed expectations – leading by example and holding the armband perfectly.
This was no different on Saturday, with a controlling performance that saw him dispossessed just once, while his defensive expertise and positional awareness allowed him to stop a number of United attacks before they happened.
The Swiss midfielder has been a credit to the badge this season, and will remain the heartbeat of the side as Sunderland look to further progress after settling back into Premier League life perfectly.
Sunderland player ratings vs Manchester United
Robin Roefs – 7
Lutsharel Geertruida – 7
Nordi Mukiele – 7
Omar Alderete – 7
Reinildo – 6
Noah Sadiki – 7
Granit Xhaka – 9
Trai Hume – 5 (Off for Eliezer Mayenda 90′)
Enzo Le Fee – 8
Chemsdine Talbi – 7 (Off for Nilson Angulo 79′)
Brian Brobbey – 8
Substitutes
Nilson Angulo (on for Chemsdine Talbi 79′) – N/A
Eliezer Mayenda (on for Trai Hume 90′) – N/A
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