Graeme Murty reflected on Aji Alese’s return to competitive action after more than a year out

Sunderland Under-21s head coach Graeme Murty paid warm tribute to Aji Alese after the defender made his first competitive appearance in more than a year, marking an important milestone in his recovery.

Alese returned to action for Sunderland’s U21s against Newcastle United in the Premier League 2 last Friday, his first outing since January 2025 following a serious injury suffered in last season’s FA Cup tie against Stoke City.

Speaking after the game, Murty highlighted Alese’s influence around the group and the role he continues to play despite his long absence. “Aji will be guided by the first team. He’s been great getting around the group. He’s just such a good person all round,” Murty said.

“He’s good for the young players. He talks to them really well, he talks to them correctly, holds them to a standard, and we’re pleased that he’s managed to get some minutes in now. So hopefully he can kick on from here, and we’ll support whatever his plan is moving forward.”

The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.

Murty also acknowledged the emotional challenge of returning after such a prolonged spell on the sidelines, admitting the defender will have experienced a mix of nerves and excitement. “Nice to see him back as well. It’s been over a year. He must have approached it with some nerves, let’s be honest.

“He must have approached it with a bit of excitement, and I think I agree with you. It’s great to see him out there. It’s great to see him on the pitch, and we wish only the best for him moving forward. That he kicks on from here and uses this as a springboard to move on to move forward.”

When asked about how beneficial it can be having first-team players drop down to play for the Under-21s when needed, Murty added: “It’s great, and we’re really clear with our alignment, and people understand what the players are, what they look like, who they are. And as much as it gives them excitement, there’s also a bit of trepidation there. There’s also a little bit of pressure there, so I think it’s great.

“The more games they come to, the more pressure they apply to the players, the more they can learn and the more that they will be tested, which is what this is all about. So, the more tests, the more eyes on, the more stress they have to deal with, the better we have to be in our support and our guidance towards them. So, I’m all for many, many more people coming on to the team.”

“We have that relationship, and our training centre is right next to the first team. So, they know everyone, they can come and talk to them. And Luke O’Nien actually was in our office the other day talking to Harrison Jones about certain parts of the game, certain elements that need to be improved, certain areas need to get better. That line is really strong, and it’s something we take care to nurture. I think it makes us different, potentially from other clubs, and I think it’s something we do well and we need to protect.”

Your next Sunderland read: Phil Smith's Sunderland player ratings v Crystal Palace as trio impress and land 8s