Sunderland: Black Cats target more after reaching 40 points
Granit Xhaka has been a key player in Sunderland’s impressive season.
The former Arsenal midfielder was one of a number of summer signings the Black Cats made, but arguably the most effective with his experience and leadership in so many matches.
Xhaka, who had recently returned from injury, started on the bench against Leeds before being introduced just before the hour mark – and it was no coincidence that Sunderland were second-best by that point.
The 33-year-old provided a calming effect, helping them get through a tense 12-minute half, as Habib Diarra’s penalty earned them their first away success since October.
Xhaka later told TNT Sports: “We talked at the beginning of the season, our target was 40 points, we reached 40 points and now we want more because the hunger is big.
“We need to stay humble. We know where we came from. Our target was 40 points. Once you get the first one, you want more. The hunger is there. We are going match by match, let’s see where we get to.”
Besides Xhaka, head coach Regis le Bris also deserves huge praise.
The Frenchman has achieved some impressive results, including victory at Leeds. He set them up to frustrate Leeds but also made the most of the few attacking situations that came their way.
It was the fifth Premier League game this season that a team has won with just one shot on target, with Sunderland now winning two of those games.
Reaching 40 points, Le Bris said, “We don’t know if it will be enough, but it is a good goal.”
“We have nine more matches to play, we want to remain assertive. The next target is 43, let’s be prepared for it. Let’s continue.”
