Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris welcomed captain Granit Xhaka’s return from injury after the Swiss midfielder helped end a three-match losing streak in Saturday’s 1-1 Premier League draw against AFC Bournemouth wsx4.
Xhaka missed five games with an ankle injury, suffering defeats to West Ham United, Arsenal and Liverpool, and made a late substitute appearance in a 3–1 defeat to Fulham on his return.
Back in the starting line-up, he wasted little time in reasserting himself, manning the midfield, barking instructions and pushing teammates into position as Sunderland held Bournemouth at bay until Evanilson’s brilliant equalizer.
«It’s important (Xhaka’s return) because he sets the tone. He’s a good player first and foremost. So in this position, number six, it certainly helps when you have a player of this quality,» Le Bris told local media.
«He is really composed. I think it is important for the confidence of the young boys. He can also set the tone, set the standards. So he is so important for us.»
Xhaka’s appearance was cut short after Tyler Adams caught the Sunderland skipper on his ankle, earning a yellow card.
Xhaka was clearly in pain and was withdrawn in the 76th minute as Sunderland held on for a point and defender Dan Ballard underlined the captain’s influence.
«We’ve missed him lately and we’ve had our toughest run of the season,» Ballard told the BBC.
«It’s great to have such a natural leader in the team. It was important to bounce back. I think we did that today.»
«They (Bournemouth) put you under pressure all game. It’s a tough place to get to, so we can be proud of today’s performance.»
Published on February 28, 2026
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