Trai Hume: Sunderland’s unsung hero of the season
Trai Hume has played more minutes for Sunderland in the Premier League than any other player this season.
Granit Xhaka, Robin Roefs, Brian Brobbey and Dan Ballard: These are the main players who will be talked about in the future when it comes to discussing the success that Sunderland found on their return to the Premier League.
But one name that will very rarely be mentioned is that of Hume, despite the fact that he has been a regular since the start of the campaign.
The Northern Ireland international has been an integral component of the Black Cats’ season under Regis Le Bris, as showcased by his Sofascore graphic below, and he perhaps deserves a lot more praise for the way he has played his part, and I include myself in that.
Read more: Melker Ellborg: Sunderland’s winter signing has work to do to replace Robin Roefs
Trai Hume’s best attribute is not his defending
But with that said, Hume is statistically one of the best defensive right-backs in the Premier League this season.
He ranks seventh in the top flight for the number of duels won per game with an average of 4.9, while also having made just four key defensive errors.
| Premier League | Hume |
| Crosses completed | 11 |
| Duels won | 152 |
| Fouls won | 34 |
| Tackles | 57 |
| Clearances | 87 |
With 87 total clearances, only 11.1 per cent of Premier League defenders have recorded more than him, again showcasing the impact he has had.
However, that isnt his biggest strength, nor is it his most valuable.
For Sunderland, Hume’s regular availability has been crucial this season, with 2583 minutes of Premier League football played, which is the most of anyone at the Stadium of Light.
Robin Roefs comes in at second, with Omar Alderete the second-most utilised outfield player.
Only one right-back in the Premier League has played more minutes than him this campaign.
Will Hume still be a regular at Sunderland next season?
Despite how much he has offered to the Black Cats this season, there is every chance that he will become a squad player next season, though that is not necessarily a reflection of his true value or his true quality.
Nordi Mukiele’s absence has afforded Hume a lengthy run in the team as of late, and his return, depending on the fitness of Ballard in particular, could see the Northern Ireland international drop to the bench.
However, regardless of what happens, it’s clear that Hume will still have a key role to play for the Wearsiders next season.
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