‘Fantastic’ Sunderland ace proved irreplaceable by placing third in amazing Championship statistics.
One Sunderland player has demonstrated that he will be crucial in the forthcoming season by placing in the Championship’s top three in a key metric.
The 2023/24 campaign is almost ended. For many Sunderland fans, the season has long since ended, with the Black Cats having little to play for.
Despite being in contention for the playoffs at the start of 2024, the team slid down a cliff due to a variety of circumstances.
Many of Sunderland’s first-team players have underperformed, with manager Mike Dodds unable to consistently get the best out of his squad.
However, other players have shone up this season, notably Trai Hume. Despite Sunderland’s struggles, the defender has maintained his form.
Hume was dubbed the ‘brightest player on the pitch’ after the 1-0 defeat to Watford.
Now, an astounding statistic has emerged, indicating that the 22-year-old will be vital next season.
Trai Hume ranked third best at defense in the Championship.
Many Sunderland first-team players will need to perform well in the coming months. With a new manager set to be named shortly, the players will undoubtedly have to show themselves to the new boss.
For many, this may be a difficult assignment, with promotion to the Premier League the ultimate goal for the Black Cats.
Hume is one athlete who should not have to audition. According to WhoScored, the 22-year-old is one of the Championship’s top defensive players.
Hume averages 3.3 tackles each game, ranking third in the Championship. Coventry’s Ben Sheaf leads the list with 3.4, implying that Hume might still lead the list heading into the final game.
Sunderland’s star player also averages 1.4 interceptions and 1.8 clearances every match. Overall, Hume has an average WhoScored rating of 6.97, with only Jack Clarke scoring better.
Sunderland must form a team around Trai Hume.
This summer, several departures are predicted. Clarke is anticipated to leave after failing to secure promotion this season.
Other top players, such as Jobe Bellingham and Anthony Patterson, have also been linked abroad in recent months.
Hume is one player Sunderland cannot let go. Consistency is essential for any promotion attempt, and the 22-year-old has shown he is capable of attaining it.
Whoever takes control of Sunderland this summer must build a club around individuals like Hume.
The defender gives every indicator that he might one day play in the Premier League, and with the appropriate instruction, he should be able to do so.
