GAME CHANGER: Sunderlands Utility player receive MASSIVE EFL recognition despite being underrated by most BLACK CATS fans.
The Black Cats have enjoyed a perfect start to the season, securing maximum points in their first four games while conceding just once, courtesy of an own goal by Luke O’Nien.
It’s no surprise that Sunderland currently sit atop the Championship table, raising strong hopes for promotion this season.
While the entire squad has delivered impressive performances, a few players have particularly stood out on Wearside.
Sunderland defender shines this season
Despite his own goal, O’Nien has been “excellent” in the opening matches. Eliezer Mayenda has also been a standout, surprising many with two goals and two assists so far.
The midfield trio of Jobe Bellingham, Chris Rigg, and Alan Browne have also impressed, but it’s Dennis Cirkin who has been statistically one of the best in the league.
The left-back, returning after an injury-plagued campaign, provided an assist on the opening day and scored his first goal in 16 months against Sheffield Wednesday.
According to WhoScored, Cirkin is currently the third highest-rated player in the Championship (7.61), trailing only Middlesbrough’s Matt Clarke (7.63) and Karamoko Dembele (7.68).
Jack Clarke would have topped the list (8.31) had he not transferred to Ipswich Town in the summer.
Cirkin has made a league-high 10 interceptions this season and has been instrumental in Sunderland’s three clean sheets.
The Black Cats would struggle if Dennis Cirkin were injured
At 22, Cirkin was expected to be a “game-changer” once fully fit, and he has more than lived up to that expectation with a “superb” start to the campaign.
With Niall Huggins and Aji Alese sidelined, Cirkin faces little competition for his position and is undoubtedly one of the first names on the teamsheet.
The only concern for Regis Le Bris is Cirkin’s injury history, as losing him would be a significant blow to both their defense and attack.
Cirkin has formed a great partnership up the left flank, previously with Jack Clarke and now with Romaine Mundle.
The former Tottenham Hotspur player plays a key role in supporting Sunderland’s attack, and his potential replacement, likely Leo Hjelde, wouldn’t be able to replicate the same impact.
After just four matches, it’s clear that Cirkin is one of the best, if not the best, left-backs in the Championship.