Granit Xhaka was named Sunderland’s men’s player of the season this week

Granit Xhaka says he is just getting started after being named Sunderland's men's player of the season on Wednesday night.

Xhaka has worn the captain's armband during a stunning first season back in the top tier for the Black Cats, and been a vital part of their success after making the bold decision to swap Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen for Wearside. Speaking after being recognised at the club's official awards night at the Beacon of Light, Xhaka said he was confident the team would succeed this season and that there was much more to come from himself and this group of players.

"It's special," he said.

"It's a special club and a special feeling. Doing so well, as a team with the staff as well... I said it a couple of weeks ago as well but it's a privilege to be part of this team and to wear the shirt. It's easy to speak and more difficult to do it, but I think we have managed everything really well with a good balance, it's very important to stay humble. I saw the quality the guys had in the team and just to bring my experience to help the younger lads as well. It's just the beginning, hopefully there are more seasons like this to come."

Xhaka picked out the two derby wins over Newcastle United as his highlight of the campaign, and urged his team mates to stick to what has made them successful as they chase a spot in Europe for next season when they face Chelsea on the final day of the Premier League campaign this Sunday.

"Of course the two derby wins against Newcastle is always special, I know before I came how special this game is but all the season, I can pick out something special," he said.

"The support we have had from the fans every game as well. I'm just happy to be here and happy to continue.

"We can't ask for more, last game of the season we are playing for something," he added.

"We know what we need to do and if we win, what we could get. We have to play the game with what has made us strong this season, stay humble, work until the end and let's see where we get to do."

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Who else was recognised at the Sunderland End of Season awards

Goalkeeper Robin Roefs was named the men's Young Player of the Season at the awards, while Chris Rigg won men's Goal of the Season for his strike against Aston Villa. Dan Ballard received the Foundation of Light Community Player of the Season award, while Brian Brobbey’s late winner at Newcastle United was voted the LiveScore Moment That Mattered.

Emily Scarr was named Women’s Player of the Season while Katy Watson won the Young Player award. Katie Kitching claimed Women’s Goal of the Season for her strike against local rivals Durham while in the academy, Finn Geragusian was named U21 Player of the Season. Finlay Holcroft won U18 Player of the Season and Charlie Scorer earned the Junior Player of the Season award. Club historian Rob Mason also received the Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of his contribution to preserving and celebrating Sunderland’s history.

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