Sunderland’s returning players, Lamine Kone and Didier N’dong, from the African Cup of nations will undoubtedly play a key role for the club in their quest to avoid relegation this season. Their absence was apparent in the decline in Sunderland’s performances over recent weeks.
The Black Cats had to make do without Kone and N’dong for four matches while the players were on international duty and did not win any of them. Both Kone and N’dong add in much needed energy to the Sunderland team.
While they did not win against Tottenham on Tuesday, a draw against a team that is one of the most talented in England is certainly creditable.
Sunderland will have to gain as many points as possible during the remaining matches of the season and the energy and resilience of Kone and N’dong will be vital if they are to reach their goal of avoiding relegation.
Sunderland face fellow strugglers Crystal Palace on Saturday. Should the Black Cats lose the game, they will be five points adrift of safety.
