Sunderland vs Liverpool Team News: Xhaka Misses Out
Team news for Sunderland vs Liverpool is now confirmed, with the major headline being that Granit Xhaka will not feature at the Stadium of Light this evening.
The experienced Swiss midfielder has been one of Regis Le Bris’ most dependable starters throughout the campaign, making his absence the most significant omission from Sunderland’s squad.
According to Liverpoolfc.com, Sunderland will also be without Bertrand Traore for the Premier League clash, while Le Bris delivered a positive update on Noah Sadiki after the midfielder was substituted during the second half of Saturday’s 3–0 defeat at Arsenal.
“Noah Sadiki came off midway through the second half against Arsenal,” Le Bris said, “but he is fine.”
Why Xhaka’s absence is a big blow for Sunderland
Xhaka’s value to Sunderland goes far beyond his reputation.
Data from Sofascore shows the Switzerland captain has started 22 league matches this season, averaging 89 minutes per game, underlining how central he is to the team’s setup.
The statistics also credit him with five assists, 1.1 key passes per match, and seven big chances created. Defensively, he contributes 1.6 tackles and 0.9 interceptions per game, along with strong success rates in both ground and aerial duels.
Sunderland remain unbeaten at home in the league, but losing the midfielder who dictates tempo, links play, and maintains high standards is a notable setback.
With Xhaka unavailable, Le Bris has handed the captain’s armband to Trai Hume, explaining his reasoning in terms that reflect the club’s identity.
“Sunderland represents a working-class community, and Trai embodies earning everything through hard work,” said Le Bris.
“He’s balanced, intense, and sets the example — exactly the type of captain we want.”
Liverpool also dealing with squad concerns
Liverpool travel north with their own selection problems, with Arne Slot again forced to adapt, particularly at right-back.
Joe Gomez could make his return after injury, but the manager stressed that his fitness remains uncertain.
“Joe hasn’t trained with the group yet,” Slot explained. “He’s expected to train today for the first time. If he’s not ready to start, then we’re missing four players who can play in that role.”
Jeremie Frimpong is still sidelined, Dominik Szoboszlai is suspended, and Conor Bradley remains out long-term, while Giovanni Leoni and Alexander Isak are also unavailable.
Former striker Chris Sutton has already highlighted the challenge Liverpool face, pointing to Sunderland’s physical approach and defensive organisation — qualities that could be even more influential if Liverpool are once again forced into a makeshift back line.
For Sunderland, the challenge is clear.
They can draw confidence from their unbeaten home record, but coping without Xhaka raises the difficulty level, especially against a Liverpool side determined to dominate midfield and convert pressure into all three points.
