A key part in Sunderland’s impressive season has been Granit Xhaka.
The former Arsenal midfielder was one of a number of summer signings the Black Cats made, but has arguably been the most influential, with his experience and leadership key in many games.
Having recently returned from injury, Xhaka started on the bench against Leeds before being introduced just before the hour mark – and it was no coincidence Sunderland improved, having been second best until that point.
The 33-year-old provided a calming influence as his side ground out a first away success since October through Habib Diarra’s penalty, helping them navigate 12 tense minutes of injury-time too.
Xhaka told TNT Sports afterwards: “We spoke at the beginning of the season, our target was 40 points, we achieved 40 points and now we want more because the hunger is big.
“We need to stay humble. We know where we come from. Our target was 40 points. When you achieve the first one, you want more. The hunger is here. We are taking it game by game, let’s see where we get.”
As well as Xhaka, head coach Regis le Bris deserves huge credit.
The Frenchman has overseen some impressive results, the victory at Leeds included. He set them up to frustrate Leeds, but also make the most of the few attacking situations that came their way.
This was just the fifth Premier League game this season a team has won with just one shot on target, with Sunderland now accounting for two of those.
“We don’t know if it will be enough but it’s a good target,” Le Bris said on reaching 40 points.
“With nine more games to play we want to stay ambitious. The next target is 43, let’s be prepared for that. Let’s keep going.”