Kevin Danso makes bold Sunderland prediction after debut and delivers VAR verdict
Kevin Danso reflected on his Sunderland debut, the controversial VAR decision and an encouraging draw at Brentford
Kevin Danso believes Sunderland will be “tough to beat” if they maintain the level shown during his debut at Brentford.
The deadline-day signing was handed an immediate start at the Gtech Community Stadium and completed the full game as Régis Le Bris’ side came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw.
Sunderland controlled much of the opening half and created several good opportunities, with Enzo Le Fée striking the post and Dan Ballard seeing a superb finish ruled out following a lengthy VAR review. Brentford improved after the interval and went ahead through Vitaly Janelt before Le Fée equalised from the penalty spot.
Danso felt Sunderland’s failure to convert their early dominance prevented them from taking greater control of the contest. “I think we started the game really well. If the goal isn't given offside, I think it's a completely different game because I feel like we dominated the first half. We were in control, but Brentford are an amazing side. I played here two weeks ago with Tottenham.
They're just a quality side, and that's why when you come here it's especially difficult. If you don't score or get in front and finish your chances, they're always good for a goal. So that's what happened. I think in the second half, we didn't start amazingly, but I feel like we finished the game really well. They're a quality side. They know exactly what to do. Very good team. I think we played amazingly today. If we continue like that, it will be tough to beat.”
Kevin Danso responds to Sunderland VAR decision
Danso was at the centre of the major first-half talking point after Ballard’s left-footed volley found the bottom corner. The defender was standing in an offside position when Ballard struck and was eventually deemed to have interfered with Caoimhín Kelleher’s line of sight. Referee Thomas Bramall reached that decision after being advised to consult the pitchside monitor.
The review lasted more than four minutes, but Danso accepted the decision despite doubting whether his position had affected the Brentford goalkeeper. “I didn't know where the ball was. I've just made a run into the box. I don't think I made any difference to him, but at the end of the day, it's the referee's decision. We respect that. We get on with the game. We're professionals and sometimes decisions will go against us and sometimes good decisions will go our way. That's just part of football.”
Danso relishes Sunderland supporters’ reception
Danso joined Sunderland on loan from Tottenham, with the agreement containing an obligation to make the move permanent if the Black Cats avoid relegation. He had only trained briefly with his new teammates before being selected at Brentford, but settled quickly in the middle of Sunderland’s defence.
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The Austria international celebrated Le Fée’s equaliser in front of the 1,700 travelling supporters and went across to acknowledge them again after the final whistle. “Loads, massively. I have heard a lot about the Sunderland supporters. It was great to be able to celebrate with them. I played a full 90 minutes, and I'm just really looking forward to getting stuck in and showing the fans and my teammates what I'm all about.”