Sunderland will have Granit Xhaka fitness plan after player and staff revelations
Granit Xhaka was the oldest player to arrive at Sunderland this summer at 32 years of age.
Over the years, the Black Cats have primarily targeted budding talent, but recognised the need for experience in the Premier League.
Indeed, Xhaka has already used his know-how to support Sunderland’s players by giving decisive dressing-room team talks.
However, given that Xhaka is the oldest outfield player at the Stadium of Light, it may well be that he needs to be rested at some point.
This article includes exclusive opinion from injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist.
Sunderland could manage Granit Xhaka’s minutes despite fitness record
When Xhaka arrived at Sunderland, it felt like only a matter of time until he was named as Regis Le Bris’ captain.
Although many would have felt sympathy towards Dan Neil, the 32-year-old has already justified the Frenchman’s bold decision.
Given that the Switzerland international is set to play a key role throughout the season, supporters would be right to question whether he will ever be rested.
- Xhaka has started every Premier League game this season
- He is yet to be substituted
- Was rested for the Carabao Cup tie with Huddersfield Town
However, Dr Brar – speaking exclusively to Mackem News – has referenced the midfielder’s outstanding fitness record, but says it makes sense for his minutes to be managed down the line.
“Granit Xhaka – by many accounts, including players and staff – is one of the most fit and committed players in professional football, and his fitness and matches played record speaks to that,” he said.
“That being said, it is his first year back in English football, and he carries a big responsibility for the squad, so it wouldn’t surprise me to see him get some matches off or at least some early subs if the game state allows it.”
Who would take Granit Xhaka’s place in Regis Le Bris’ side?
Given that Xhaka has already shown some classy moments for Sunderland, it does not bear thinking about his potential absence.
However, as with any player in Le Bris’ side, there will be occasions when others must fill in, just as Chris Rigg did, temporarily, on Sunday.
In terms of natural replacements, Neil would probably be the leading candidate, but it is unclear whether his manager would trust him with that responsibility.
With Habib Diarra out injured, Le Bris could have called upon his former captain, but instead handed a rare start to Rigg.
Another option would be to move Enzo Le Fee to a central role so that Simon Adingra or Eliezer Mayenda can fill in out wide.
In an ideal world, Xhaka would be playing every minute of every game, but Sunderland cannot afford to run him into the ground.
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