GEERTRUIDA FAN VIEW

It was a busy old deadline day for us, having to act on late deals to strengthen the side and one of those late deals was the signing of Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig. A player similar to Nordi Mukiele who can operate in centre back as well as right back. To get a proper insight on the 25 year old Dutchman we spoke with the guys from RBL Talk - The RB Leipzig Report to see what he can offer us...

Geertruida only signed for Leipzig a year ago. Are you surprised to see him leave?

If our old manager Marco Rose was still at the helm yes, but as we are under a new style and formation no, not really.

It's a reported 2.5m euro loan fee with a 23m euro option to buy. How do you feel about that fee?

It's slightly an overpayment in my opinion. I think what we paid for him was €20m which would be enough.

Are you surprised that he's come to a newly-promoted team like Sunderland?

No, while outstanding at Feyenoord, his step up to Bundesliga-level competition seemed to present challenges in securing a consistent starting role.

Will Geertruida be missed by the Leipzig fans?

Yes, but he wasn't a massive fan favourite.

What are Lutsharel's biggest strengths? And weaknesses?

Geertruida is highly adaptable, capable of playing as a right-back although needs to work on crossing and centre-back as well as a defensive midfielder. This tactical flexibility has been a major asset throughout his career and could help at Sunderland.

His biggest weakness is a poor goal tally. One goal for Leipzig and none for the Netherlands International side, this shows that his offensive contribution remains limited and is an area he can improve upon mainly during attacking set pieces, but his defensive work is more favourable.

What's his fitness record like?

Relatively good, he missed just three games in total for us. 

Do you think he's good enough to start week-in week-out in the Premier League?

Absolutely, he has the ability to be a reliable centre back and a rock at the back with the ability to make goal saving challenges.

Can you see him making the difference in a potential relegation battle?

Yes he could make the difference but defence is only a portion of it. You need to score enough goals as well, something he has lacked.

What's his attitude like?

He has the tendency to stand around, yell and wave his hands about at team mates even if he is at fault, something to keep an eye on...