Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris has confirmed that Granit Xhaka is fit again and available for selection ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Fulham.
The midfielder has been sidelined with an ankle injury but returned to full training this week, giving Sunderland a timely boost as they enter the final stretch of the season.
Granit Xhaka fitness boost for Sunderland
Speaking ahead of the Fulham fixture, Le Bris delivered positive news on the Swiss international.
“Granit has more or less trained fully this week so is available for selection,” he said.
“He’ll have to respect the process but it’s good because now we have three or four midfielders available. The competition is important in the group, we can’t play with only 11 players.”
Xhaka’s return strengthens Sunderland’s central options at a crucial point in the campaign, with 12 matches and 36 points still to play for.
Injury updates: Reinildo setback, Traoré nearing return
Le Bris also confirmed fresh injury news regarding Reinildo.
“Reinildo won’t be available for at least three or four weeks. Knee injury so he’ll potentially be back after Brighton.
“It was during the game against Liverpool. The first diagnosis wasn’t positive, but the second diagnosis was more positive so he needs a short period of rest then he will be back.”
Meanwhile, Bertrand Traoré is edging closer to reintegration.
“Next week he will rejoin the group and might be available soon.”
Fulham test comes after Liverpool setback
Sunderland’s impressive unbeaten home run was ended by Liverpool last time out, but Le Bris insists perspective is key.
“We were aware of the fragility of the run because the Premier League is so demanding. If it’s broken that doesn’t mean we aren’t able to be strong at home again.”
He expects Fulham to provide a stern challenge.
“Fulham are a well-established Premier League team, their patterns play through you and through the pressure. They are not perfect but they are strong, it will be a good test for us.”
With survival still a priority, Le Bris remains ambitious.
“We have 12 games left so 36 points available. We know in this league there are no easy games. We want to stay bold, aggressive, ambitious.”
Key Insights
- Granit Xhaka back fit and available for Fulham clash
- Reinildo ruled out 3–4 weeks with knee injury
- Bertrand Traoré nearing return to training
- Sunderland targeting strong finish to season
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