Sunderland vs Liverpool Team News as Xhaka Is Ruled Out
Team news is in ahead of Sunderland vs Liverpool, and the major headline is that Granit Xhaka will miss tonight’s clash at the Stadium of Light.
The experienced Swiss midfielder, 33, has been one of Regis Le Bris’ most dependable performers this season and is undoubtedly the standout absentee from Sunderland’s squad.
Liverpoolfc.com has confirmed that both Bertrand Traore and Xhaka are unavailable for the Premier League encounter. There was, however, encouraging news regarding Noah Sadiki, who was substituted during the 3-0 defeat at Arsenal. Le Bris reassured supporters by stating that the midfielder is “good” despite being withdrawn midway through the second half.
Why Xhaka’s absence is significant
Xhaka’s value to Sunderland extends well beyond his reputation — it’s reflected in his numbers.
According to Sofascore, the Switzerland captain has started 22 league matches this season, averaging 89 minutes per appearance, underlining his importance to the team’s structure.
He has contributed five assists, averages 1.1 key passes per game, and has created seven big chances. Defensively, he remains just as influential, recording 1.6 tackles and 0.9 interceptions per match, while also proving effective in both ground and aerial duels.
Sunderland have yet to lose at home in the league this term, so being without the midfielder who dictates tempo, links play, and brings leadership is a notable blow.
In Xhaka’s absence, Le Bris has handed the captain’s armband to Trai Hume, explaining that the defender embodies the values of the club and its community.
“Sunderland belongs to a working-class community and Trai is a good example of earning things,” the head coach said.
“He is really well balanced and intense, and a good example and captain for the squad.”
Liverpool facing issues of their own
Liverpool, meanwhile, travel with selection concerns of their own, particularly in defence.
Arne Slot is once again dealing with limited options at right-back. Joe Gomez could return to the matchday squad, but the manager admitted the situation remains uncertain.
“Joe has not trained with us yet,” Slot explained.
“I’m expecting him to train with us for the first time today. If Joe is not ready to start then we are missing four players who have played in that position.”
Jeremie Frimpong is still sidelined, Dominik Szoboszlai is suspended, and Conor Bradley remains out long term. Giovanni Leoni and Alexander Isak are also unavailable.
Chris Sutton has described the fixture as a stern examination for Liverpool, highlighting Sunderland’s organisation and physical approach — qualities that could pose even more problems if the Reds are forced into another makeshift defensive setup.
For the hosts, the equation is simple: their unbeaten home record offers belief, but coping without Xhaka makes the challenge far steeper. Liverpool will aim to dominate midfield, convert that control into sustained pressure, and ultimately turn it into three crucial points.
