Regis Le Bris praises Xhaka’s impact after a hard-fought draw
Regis Le Bris hailed Granit Xhaka’s influence in Sunderland’s midfield after the summer signing’s late equaliser earned a 1-1 draw against Everton. The Sunderland boss described his current centerpiece as a source of balance, leadership and decisive moments as the Black Cats navigated a challenging opponent.
Xhaka’s early-season impact and the tactical setup
Since arriving before the season began, Xhaka has quickly established himself as a central figure in Le Bris’s plans. The midfielder’s blend of discipline, range of passing and willingness to press high up the pitch has helped Sunderland control phases of games where they previously looked to be on the back foot. Le Bris has repeatedly stressed the importance of a robust midfield spine, and Xhaka’s performances suggest he is the one delivering that stability in tight, evenly matched encounters.
The moment that mattered: a goal that changed the dynamic
With the match poised at 0-0, Xhaka struck at a crucial moment, converting a rebound and delivering a reminder of his quality in the box. The equaliser not only preserved a point against a traditional rival but also signalled to the squad that they can rely on midfielders to take chances when the game is finely balanced. The goal epitomised the way Sunderland want to play: compact in defense, quick to exploit space, and ready to convert moments into tangible rewards.
Le Bris on leadership and game control
Le Bris highlighted Xhaka’s leadership on and off the ball, noting how his presence helps organize teammates and maintain composure during late attacks from Everton. “Granit brings a level of experience and calm that helps us manage games better,” Le Bris said. “In midfield, his ability to read the play and distribute with purpose has been a recurring advantage for us this season.” His comments align with Sunderland’s broader strategy of building a cohesive unit where every role is clearly defined and trusted, from defensive screen to creative engine and goal threat.
What this means for Sunderland’s season so far
The draw against Everton keeps Sunderland in the mix near the upper reaches of the table, underscoring that their summer recruitment, especially Xhaka, is contributing to a promising start. Beyond the numbers, the team appears to have found a balance between defending resolutely and pushing forward with intent. Xhaka’s influence is evident in the way Sunderland transition from defense into attack, offering a reliable outlet and the ability to switch play quickly when needed.
Looking ahead: continued integration and key fixtures
As Sunderland progress through the early stages of the campaign, the challenge will be to sustain consistency and keep integrating new teammates into a coherent system. If Xhaka maintains his current form—pulling the strings in midfield, pressing effectively, and providing a late-game moment of quality—the Black Cats have the potential to solidify their place among the league’s contenders. Le Bris will likely lean on the Swiss international to lead by example, especially in matches that test their discipline and tactical discipline.
Conclusion: a point earned, a platform built
Ultimately, the 1-1 result against Everton reflects more than a single goal. It demonstrates Sunderland’s growing maturity and the critical role of Granit Xhaka in shaping their season. With continued backing and a clear plan from Le Bris, the midfielder’s influence could be a cornerstone of a sustained push for domestic success.
