Sunderland captain decision explained and update on new 'leadership team'
Luke O'Nien was club captain last season and Dan Neil team captain, but it's new recruit Xhaka who will wear the armband this season, the Black Cats have confirmed.
And Le Bris is also in the process of finalising a new leadership team. The make-up of that team will be confirmed at the end of the summer transfer window.
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Explaining his decision, boss Regis Le Bris said: 'In the Premier League, it will be important to have consistency, maturity, and experience. Granit brings all these qualities.
"His behaviour so far has been very impressive, and on the field, you can see that his level is high.
"Others around him can feel this influence, and his leadership will support the team as we adapt to a different environment and face new challenges and opportunities.
"Granit's role will also form part of a new leadership team, which will be finalised following the end of the summer transfer window.'
During his glittering career, Xhaka has captained Switzerland, Arsenal Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen.
The 32-year-old said: 'It makes me incredibly proud to be captain of this club and of this team.
"I hope to show my leadership on and off the pitch, helping my team-mates in the training ground and across the club.
"To be part of Sunderland's history, alongside some of the names who have worn the armband before, is an honour.
"People who know me know exactly what they'll get – I'm someone who demands a lot. I'm a winner and I want to win – and I expect the same from my teammates."
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