We need to have a serious talk about what Enzo Le Fee has done at Sunderland
Last season, Enzo Le Fee was being compared to Jason Knight, now, he’s thriving in the Premier League with Sunderland.
Sunderland are sixth in the Premier League at the time of writing, having picked up 22 points from their first 13 games back in the top flight.
Granit Xhaka is often hailed as the reason behind that, though the success the Black Cats have found this season has been as a result of a team effort.
Those who arrived in the summer have adapted to life in the North East as well as anyone could have imagined, though it’s often going under the radar just how important those who were here last season have been.
Le Fee is one of them, and he deserves more eyes on his performances.
Enzo Le Fee is massively underrated
Le Fee got a goal and an assist in Sunderland’s win against Bournemouth, taking him up to four goal contributions for the season.
More often than not, he has been deployed by Regis Le Bris as a left-winger, though the clash against the Cherries saw him return to his more favoured role in the middle of the pitch.
With that said, he has thrived wherever he has played this season, and despite being at the top of his game nearly every time he has stepped foot on the pitch, very rarely has he been labelled as a game changer, but that is what he is.
Via FotMob, Le Fee created three chances against the Cherries, but his game went far beyond what you would expect from someone who is typically known for his creative ability.
The Frenchman made two interceptions and completed one tackle, while also winning 50 per cent of his ground duels, showcasing his willingness to work hard for the team, which is key to success in the Premier League.
His work rate is second to none, and that, added to everything else he brings to this side, makes him one of the first names on the teamsheet at Sunderland, regardless of where he features.
The Frenchman has not had anywhere near as much credit as he has deserved this season, and it’s only a matter of time until people’s eyes are opened to how good he truly is.
What is Enzo Le Fee’s best position?
With an away trip to Liverpool up next, there is every chance that Sunderland will return to a back five, which would likely see Le Fee play as a winger.
He’s effective there, but his game is far more suited to being in the middle of the pitch, whether that be from an attacking point of view or a defensive one.
Le Fee thrives in tight spaces, and the link-up he demonstrated with Xhaka on Saturday showcases the quality that Sunderland have in midfield.
There were concerns over his ability to compete physically there, though they have quickly been subdued.
Going forward, Le Fee has to be used in the middle when the set-up allows it, and his role there will only bring out more from those around him.
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