Dodi Lukebakio shows Sunderland what they're missing with dazzling exploits
Dodi Lukebakio's Europa League exploits should make Sunderland regret not signing him after their own struggles in the competition.
Sunderland got off to a decent start in the Europa League on Wednesday night with a 1-0 win over AZ Alkmaar.
Their first European game in 53 years was settled by a second-half penalty from Enzo Le Fee.
The Black Cats struggled to create many chances and were fortunate to win with a controversial spot kick, as they seemed to be lacking firepower in the final third.
Lukebakio was linked with a move to Wearside in the summer, and proved in a different game that he could have made a real difference for Regis Le Bris' side on Wednesday.
The Belgium international scored as Benfica opened their Europa League account with a 2-0 win away to AC Milan.
Sunderland could have done with Dodi Lukebakio against AZ Alkmaar
Sacha Tavolieri reported on Deadline Day that the Black Cats were trying to broker a late deal for Lukebakio, with talks underway with Benfica and the 28-year-old open to the move.
They ultimately failed to get his signature over the line, as sources revealed to Football Insider that Sunderland wanted to sign versatile forward Malick Fofana, who soon arrived from Lyon.
Fofana started on the left flank against AZ, with Trai Hume on the right, but they only combined for one shot on target and one chance created as the Black Cats needed a penalty to win.
Lukebakio, meanwhile, was impressing for Benfica as he netted the opener in the 16th minute with a fantastic strike from the edge of the area.
The Belgian international star took the most shots on target (3) in the game, had the most touches (42) of any attacker on the pitch,
He also made three tackles and recoveries while tracking back, winning five of his seven ground duels and two of his three aerial duels.
The 28-year-old was a standout in a high-profile Europa League clash, which is exactly what Sunderland lacked and may need on their side if they want to win the competition this season.
What are Sunderland's chances of winning the Europa League?
Sunderland are off the mark in the Europa League, with a trip to Portuguese side Torreense up next in October and their own clash at the San Siro on the horizon in December.
Opta's supercomputer has updated its predictions for the competition, with the Black Cats currently fourth-favourites to win, with a 9.13 per cent chance as it stands.
Lukebakio's Benfica are the favourites to win it, with a 17.42 per cent chance, while Bournemouth are also well-fancied, with a 14.3 per cent chance of glory.