Jamie Redknapp wowed by ‘magnificent’ Sunderland player for what he did vs Leeds
Jamie Redknapp was left in awe as Sunderland drew 1-1 with Leeds United on Sunday afternoon.
The pair of Premier League newcomers played out an entertaining clash at the Stadium of Light, and it ultimately ended with both teams earning a share of the points.
Simon Adingra put Sunderland ahead with a curling effort in the 28th minute, before Dominic Calvert-Lewin was on hand to notch an equaliser for his team just two minutes after the half-time interval.
Regis Le Bris’ side have made an excellent start on their top-flight return, but they were forced to settle for a draw, as a resurgent Leeds took control of the game in the second half.
Jamie Redknapp amazed by Trai Hume moment vs Leeds
Trai Hume has been a standout performer for Sunderland upon their return to the top flight, and he turned in another bright display against Leeds.
The Northern Ireland international had a challenging afternoon on the right side of the Mackems’ defence, but that didn’t stop him from having another promising game for his team.
Le Bris has started the 23-year-old in all but one of his side’s league games so far this term, and he has now come in for yet more praise for a moment he produced on Sunday.
Hume produced an eye-catching sliding clearance to block Brenden Aaronson’s effort on the goal line, after it had already beaten goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
The youngster’s intervention certainly wasn’t lost on Redknapp, as he lavished praise on the defender during Sky Sports’ coverage of the game.
“This is a good chance for Leeds here,” the former England international said while analysing footage during the half-time break.
“Calvert-Lewin makes a lovely touch to Aaronson, he takes good first touch, a good second one, and when he hits that, he thinks it’s going in.
“Hume comes from nowhere to save a goal for his team. It’s brilliant defending, magnificent.”
Granit Xhaka enters esteemed company after Sunderland draw
Granit Xhaka has starred for Sunderland in the early stages of the season, and he is another player who has been heavily praised by pundits and fans around the league.
The Switzerland international was ostracised during his time at Arsenal, but he has since revitalised his career and has quickly become a central figure for Sunderland since his arrival in the summer.
He notched his fifth league assist of the campaign in the draw with Leeds, a tally which is only bettered by Bruno Fernandes and Rayan Cherki, according to Opta Joe via their X account.
That is also the highest assist total by a Sunderland player in the top-flight since Andy Reid managed six during the 2009-10 campaign.
Xhaka is having a brilliant season for the Black Cats, and this is yet more recognition for the midfielder after another impressive display.