Goalscorer Granit Xhaka keeps Sunderland in the top 4

The season has only been underway for two and a half months, yet Granit Xhaka (33 years old) is already among the candidates for Premier League Signing of the Year. And his latest performance isn't going to diminish his chances. The Basel midfielder shone once again for Sunderland this Monday evening, in their home match against Everton, which concluded Matchday 10 (1-1).

Thanks in large part to him, his team has extended its unbeaten run to three matches and remains in the top four of the league, securing a Champions League spot. At this stage of the season, it's too early to attribute to the Black Cats – back in the English top flight after eight years of struggle – any intention of participating in Europe's most prestigious competition. But with a Xhaka performing at this level in their ranks, there's certainly reason to be hopeful.

Starting for the tenth time in as many matches, wearing the captain's armband, the Swiss team's leader was unable to stop Iliman Ndiaye from opening Everton's goal in the 15th minute. Embarking on a solo run, the Senegalese winger weaved his way into the box before slotting the ball into the bottom corner. A gem of a goal.

In the second half, it took Sunderland just 43 seconds to level the score. Played back by Enzo Le Fée, Xhaka unleashed a low shot from the edge of the box, which was deflected by a defender with the tip of his foot. The ball then struck the crossbar before bouncing down behind the line.

Having already provided 3 assists since his arrival from Bayer Leverkusen this summer , the No. 34 scores his first goal in Sunderland colours.

Like its Swiss midfielder, the newly promoted team has had a phenomenal start to the season (5 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses) and is currently in 4th place (18 points).

Brice Cheneval (bch) has been a journalist at 20 minutes for the Sports section since 2020. He covers all sports, with a penchant for football and basketball.