Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has once again lauded the influence of Granit Xhaka, following the midfielder's crucial equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Everton at the Stadium of Light on November 3, 2025. Xhaka's first goal for the club secured a point for the Black Cats, maintaining their unbeaten home record in the Premier League this season.
Everton took an early lead in the 15th minute through Iliman Ndiaye, who beat several defenders before curling a shot into the far corner. The Toffees threatened to extend their lead, with Jack Grealish hitting the post and Thierno Barry missing a clear chance. However, Sunderland started the second half strongly, with Xhaka's deflected shot finding the net just 46 seconds after the restart. The goal, which deflected off Everton defender James Tarkowski, marked Xhaka's first in a Sunderland shirt.
Le Bris emphasized Xhaka's importance to the team, particularly his leadership and experience. "He's really important because we have many young players and many new players in this league," Le Bris said. "They don't know the condition and one player like Granit, with his previous experiences, is really important for us. He has this quality to score... He sets the standards". Le Bris also highlighted Xhaka's competitive spirit and his connection with his teammates.
Sunderland dominated the second half after Xhaka's equalizer but were unable to find a winning goal. Wilson Isidor came close, and Xhaka himself created another chance with a cross that Nordi Mukiele headed over the bar. Everton's Vitali Mykolenko forced a save from Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs in the final minutes.
The draw sees Sunderland move up to fourth in the Premier League table, continuing their strong start to the season following their promotion. Le Bris' side have 18 points from their opening 10 games, their best record at this stage of a top-flight campaign since 1999-00. Sunderland have shown resilience throughout the season, earning a league-high eight points from losing positions.
Xhaka's influence extends beyond his on-field performances. Le Bris appointed him as captain in August, recognizing his leadership qualities. Le Bris has said that Xhaka "leads by example" and "gives us faith and hope," adding that "On the pitch he micro-manages situations. He solves problems".
Everton manager David Moyes, returning to the Stadium of Light for the first time since his spell managing Sunderland in 2017, acknowledged his team's poor performance after a promising start. Everton are currently in 14th place in the league.
Sunderland will face Arsenal at the Stadium of Light in their next match.
