The 5 Sunderland stars guaranteed a start after January transfer window closes
The latest Sunderland news, via Lucy Scothern.
Business in the January transfer window can threaten to shake up a squad while Premier League action is ongoing.
Nonetheless, here are our top five that are certain to feature in the starting line-up for Sunderland come 2 February onwards.
Robin Roefs
Since signing for the Black Cats last summer, Robin Roefs has solidified his position as Sunderland’s permanent No1 in the Premier League. The 22-year-old Dutchman currently leads the league with the highest save percentage this season at 76.3%. At the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Roefs saved three Everton penalties back-to-back to send SAFC into the FA Cup fourth round. He has also kept seven clean sheets — joint sixth among goalkeepers — and sits second in the league for saves with 74. He looks set to remain a key part of Sunderland’s starting XI.
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Granit Xhaka
34-year-old Premier League veteran Granit Xhaka has proved himself invaluable, playing and captaining the Black Cats for all 22 games so far this season. The Swiss midfielder is now a fan favourite with his leadership and experience shining through in how he conducts himself on the pitch. Statistically, Xhaka ranks joint fourth in the entire league for assists, with five under his belt thus far, winning 111 duels on the way. The atmosphere of camaraderie and desire to win he brings to the team culture has not gone unnoticed, with many fans surely thanking their lucky stars the former Arsenal player chose Wearside over a rumoured Serie A move last summer.
Noah Sadiki
At just 21 years of age, Sadiki has shown a maturity beyond his years. Bringing versatility and composed ball control to the Black Cats’ midfield, his contributions have earned him 17 appearances in Red and White stripes so far – his five absences down to representing the Democratic Republic of Congo at AFCON. Sadiki’s stats include an 85% pass completion rate, a 60% dribble completion rate and a respectable 64 duels won in the league so far.
Omar Alderete
Since arriving from Getafe, Alderete’s commanding presence has been key for Sunderland’s back line. The Paraguayan has a pass completion rate of 84% and dominates in aerial duels, with 64 successes to his name this season. Defending with aggression, Alderete has earned 24 interceptions, 17 blocks and 74 duels won whilst protecting his box. Overall, Alderete’s work rate and ability to mesh with his teammates to produce results, gives him a secure spot in the Black Cat’s line-up come January’s end.
Nordi Mukiele
Mukiele’s experience is evident whenever he steps onto the pitch. Arriving to Wearside from PSG last summer, six months playing in Red and White has given the 28-year-old Frenchman ample time to impress, topping Premier League stats charts in the process. To name a few, Mukiele is fourth in the league for interceptions with an astounding 30, eighth for the number of duels won with 131, and fifth out of all defenders for tackles, with an incredible 50. A staple on the team sheet, Mukiele will surely see off any competition for his position.
Honorable Mentions - Enzo Le Fee
With four goals across all competitions this season, the French midfielder has an 80% pass completion rate, ranking joint sixth in the league for assists, with four.
Brian Brobbey
The forward is a force to be reckoned with, most recently scoring the winning goal against Crystal Palace at home, bringing his total to four for the season.
Dan Ballard
The Championship play-off semi-final hero, the 26 year old centre-back has transitioned into Premier League play superbly. Dominant up and down the pitch, Ballard has racked up 2 goals, 71 successful aerial duels, an 82% pass completion rate and 109 duels won.
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