Sunderland claimed a routine 2-0 win over Derby County in the Championship on Tuesday, with several standout performers.
Sunderland return to the top of the Championship table after a solid display against Derby County, who conceded either side of half-time.
Jobe Bellingham scored a wonder goal from range, opening his account for the season, with Wilson Isidor doubling the Black Cats’ lead in the second half.
Once again, Sunderland fans hailed Romaine Mundle for his confident and exciting performance down the left hand side.
The former Spurs man is proving to be a real creative and attacking force for the Black Cats, following the sale of Jack Clarke to Ipswich Town earlier this summer.
Regis Le Bris’ fine start to life at the Stadium of Light continues then, with his side having claimed six wins from their opening eight Championship fixtures this season.
There’s several players continuing to shine and several who have maybe gone under the radar. One of those is Dennis Cirkin.
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Dennis Cirkin return has been key to Sunderland success
Another former Spurs man, Cirkin missed large parts of last season with numerous injuries, eventually making just eight Championship appearances.
So far this season, the 22-year-old has played every minute of Sunderland’s eight Championship fixtures, scoring one and assisting one.
Cirkin has been praised by Sunderland fans who notice the change in balance and stability, especially down the left, when Cirkin is playing.
But few may realise just how much of an impact that ‘game-changer’ Cirkin has made. Against Derby County especially, Cirkin didn’t draw too much praise despite a commanding performance.
Cirkin made six more defensive actions than any player on the pitch on Tuesday night (14, with seven of those being tackles), whilst also recording the most touches of the ball (78), and the most duels (12 out of 20 completed, both numbers being the highest of anyone).
Sunderland have another valuable asset in Dennis Cirkin
Like so many others in the Sunderland first-team, Cirkin is rapidly becoming a very valuable asset.
Cirkin has had Premier League interest before, though nothing ever came of it; Brentford were among the teams linked.
But if he continues to shine then it’s only a matter of time before those links reignite, and all of a sudden, the Black Cats have another valuable young players on their books.
Sunderland are back in Championship action against Leeds United on Friday night.