‘Sensational’ – Troy Deeney names Sunderland trio in Team of the Week after late Chelsea triumph
Sunderland Trio Named in Troy Deeney’s Premier League Team of the Week After Chelsea Victory
Sunderland’s impressive 2-1 win over Chelsea on Saturday afternoon has earned three of their players a spot in Troy Deeney’s Premier League Team of the Week. The former striker selected Robin Roefs, Granit Xhaka, and Wilson Isidor following the Black Cats’ dramatic late triumph at Stamford Bridge.
After conceding early, Regis Le Bris’ side showed remarkable resilience. Isidor equalised before half-time, and substitute Chemsdine Talbi struck a stoppage-time winner to seal all three points in West London. The victory lifted Sunderland to fourth place in the Premier League table after nine matches.
Writing in his weekly BBC Sport column, Deeney highlighted several standout performances—not just from the weekend’s action, but throughout the early stages of the campaign.
Deeney on Robin Roefs
Reflecting on Roefs’ contribution, Deeney said:
“He might not have made a huge number of saves, but the ones he did make were crucial. It was a massive performance for Sunderland away at Chelsea. In matches like these, you need your key players to step up, and he was pivotal at vital moments.”
Deeney on Granit Xhaka
Turning his attention to the Swiss midfielder, Deeney praised Xhaka’s leadership:
“People focus on Sunderland’s new signings and young talents, but Xhaka is the general on that pitch. He organises, tackles, and leads by example. He reminds me of John Terry at Chelsea toward the end of his career—just a level above everyone else. The way he controls the tempo and passes is exceptional. For me, he was outstanding.”
Deeney on Wilson Isidor
Deeney also commended Isidor, who scored his fourth Premier League goal of the season in the win:
“He’s adapted to the Premier League far better than I expected. Honestly, I thought he might struggle. He wasn’t prolific in the Championship—just 13 goals during promotion—but he’s stepped up brilliantly. Maybe the challenge of the Premier League has pushed him to elevate his game.”
Deeney’s full Team of the Week also includes Aston Villa pair Matty Cash and Ezri Konsa, Leeds United’s Joe Rodon and Brendan Aaronson, Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven, Burnley duo Quilindschy Hartman and Zian Flemming, and Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo. Brentford’s Keith Andrews was named Manager of the Week.
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