Theo Walcott has hailed Granit Xhaka as a “major factor” in Sunderland’s bid to avoid relegation this season, praising the veteran midfielder’s leadership, passion, and technical quality following the Black Cats’ 1–1 draw with Aston Villa.
Sunderland, back in the Premier League for the first time since 2017, continued their impressive start to the campaign with a spirited performance at the Stadium of Light on Sunday. Despite going down to ten men in the 33rd minute after Reinildo’s red card, Regis Le Bris’ side battled back to earn a point thanks to Wilson Isidor’s equaliser — assisted by Xhaka.
Walcott: “He Sets the Tone”
Speaking on Match of the Day, Walcott singled out Xhaka as the heartbeat of Sunderland’s midfield and a driving force behind their early-season success.
“He did surprise a lot of people when he joined Sunderland, but if they want to break the pattern and stay in the league, I think he’s a major factor,” Walcott said. “His leadership skills, the way he sets the behaviours, the patterns — it’s all there.”
Walcott praised Xhaka’s ability to adapt mid-game, especially after Reinildo’s dismissal, noting that the Swiss international’s experience allowed Sunderland to remain composed and competitive.
“He leads by example. His passion, hunger, bravery — everyone feeds off that.”
Xhaka’s Assist: “One of the Best You’ll See”
Xhaka’s headed pass to Isidor for the equaliser was his second assist of the season, having previously set up the French striker’s dramatic winner against Brentford. Walcott was particularly impressed by the technique involved.
“It’s such a difficult skill. It’s like time slows down for him, and he cushions it. That will be one of the best assists you’ll see in the Premier League this season.”
From Champions League to Relegation Fight
Xhaka’s move to Sunderland raised eyebrows across Europe. The 32-year-old left Bayer Leverkusen — and Champions League football — to join a newly promoted side facing a potential relegation battle. But his impact has been immediate.
He’s started all five of Sunderland’s Premier League matches, filling the void left by Jobe Bellingham and helping transform the team into a more balanced and resilient unit.
Sunderland’s Survival Blueprint
With eight points from five games and a five-point cushion above the relegation zone, Sunderland are defying expectations. While Isidor’s goals have grabbed headlines, Walcott believes Xhaka’s influence is just as vital — if not more so.
“He’s not the quickest, but he’s smart. He breaks up play, makes the passes, and when he presses, he sets the level for the whole team.”
As Sunderland continue their fight to stay in the top flight, Xhaka’s leadership and consistency could be the difference between survival and the drop — and Walcott is convinced the Black Cats have found their anchor.