XHAKA NAMED CAPTAIN

It has been confirmed that new signing Granit Xhaka will wear the armband this season following his arrival from Bayer Leverkusen.

The accomplished midfielder has held the same role previously at Borussia Monchengladbach and Arsenal, as well as stepping in as captain for Leverkusen and also his national team, Switzerland.

The 32-year-old said: “It makes me incredibly proud to be captain of this Club and of this team. I hope to show my leadership on and off the pitch, helping my team-mates in the training ground and across the Club. To be part of Sunderland’s history, alongside some of the names who have worn the armband before, is an honour. People who know me know exactly what they’ll get – I’m someone who demands a lot. I’m a winner and I want to win – and I expect the same from my team-mates."

Régis Le Bris added: “In the Premier League, it will be important to have consistency, maturity, and experience. Granit brings all these qualities. His behaviour so far has been very impressive, and on the field, you can see that his level is high. Others around him can feel this influence, and his leadership will support the team as we adapt to a different environment and face new challenges and opportunities. Granit’s role will also form part of a new leadership team, which will be finalised following the end of the summer transfer window.”

On another note, Xhaka is the cover star of ALS issue 268. It will be available around the outside of the SoL on Saturday but can also be ordered online HERE.