View: 81% Tommy Watson proves youth can prevail at Sunderland

Tommy Watson was the match-winner for Sunderland in their 2-1 victory over Stoke City on Saturday afternoon.

The highly rated 18-year-old scored both goals for the Black Cats as they ended a six-game winless run at the Stadium of Light on 7 December.

Watson has had to step up in the absence of Romaine Mundle and his recent performances have showcased his ability to do just that.

Tommy Watson shines against Stoke City for Sunderland

It was certainly a day to remember for Watson having bagged not only his first goal for the club, but his second as well which proved to be the difference against Stoke.

According to FotMob, those two goals came from an xG (expected goals) of just 0.07. Perhaps even more impressively, his xGOT was 0.52 from the two chances which showcases how well he actually did to score on both occasions.

In fact, Watson may be somewhat disappointed to only come away with two goals having also missed one big chance in the game as well as hitting the post in the first half.

Of the five shots he had, three hit the target, demonstrating his threat when striking the ball.

Sunderland Tommy Watson
Credit: Imago

Watson completed one of the two dribbles he attempted in the encounter while boasting an 81 per cent pass accuracy.

With 62 touches in the game, his willingness to get on the ball and make something happen proved crucial as the Black Cats got back to winning ways and his performance certainly weakens any concerns about the depth in that area ahead of a “unique” January transfer window.

In other Sunderland news, the Black Cats could be set for a potential six-figure windfall.

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