Régis Le Bris reveals Granit Xhaka injury concern after Sunderland beat Chelsea

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has revealed that Granit Xhaka felt discomfort during the warm-up before Sunday's 1-0 Premier League victory over Chelsea.

The midfielder attempted to play but was replaced by Jules Ahoka inside four minutes at the Stadium of Light.

Enzo Le Fée's first-half penalty subsequently secured three crucial points, lifting Sunderland off the bottom of the table.

Le Bris suggested Xhaka had suffered a calf problem during the final stages of his pre-match preparations.

"It looks like a calf injury, but we don't know exactly the timeframe at the minute," the Sunderland manager explained.

"It was just the last sprint of the warm-up, that's often the case."

The extent of the injury remains uncertain, with Sunderland awaiting further assessment.

Ahoka stepped into midfield and helped the hosts overcome the early disruption.

Despite losing their captain, Sunderland produced a determined performance against Xabi Alonso's side.

Brian Brobbey won a penalty after being brought down by Levi Colwill, allowing Le Fée to score in the 36th minute.

Chelsea dominated possession after the interval but struggled to break down Sunderland's defence.

"The three points were crucial at the end of this nine-game block, before the international break as well," Le Bris said.

The victory gave Sunderland a welcome lift following a difficult run of results.

Although Sunderland moved out of the relegation zone, Le Bris warned his players against complacency.

"I think the lads felt the danger as well. It's important to take this into account," he explained.

"It's important to do it now, because if it's later, it will be too late."

The Frenchman stressed that the club still had considerable work ahead.

"It's not done, I told them the target is still 40 points, so a long way to go," he added.

Sunderland will assess Xhaka's injury during the November international break as Le Bris looks to build on an important victory.