Former Chelsea and Middlesbrough striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has praised Sunderland forward Brian Brobbey, saying the 24-year-old is not appreciated as much as he should be. The former Ajax man has become a key part of Regis Le Bris' tactics after initially having to wait for regular game time following his summer move.
Impressive Form and Interest
Brobbey scored a hat-trick against Manchester City, but a knock picked up on international duty is now seeing his game time managed by the Black Cats. Despite not being the most prolific striker, he has still scored 10 goals in 38 appearances for Sunderland, offering more than just his shooting.
His performances led to links with Manchester United and Serie A side Como during the summer transfer window, but Sunderland made it clear their main man up front was not for sale and would not negotiate with interested parties.
Hasselbaink's Defence
The impressive displays earned Brobbey a recall to the Netherlands international set-up, and Hasselbaink has defended him against criticism back in his homeland. Speaking to the Sun, Hasselbaink said: "Brobbey's a little bit like me. He’s not being appreciated as much because of the more physical style that he has."
"But the Dutch have been, and still are, a little bit spoiled with attacking talent. He's totally different. The Dutch team, and the Dutch fans, have to adapt to that a little bit more. Sometimes they don't want to adapt, because in Holland, they like to compare everything with the Van Bastens, the Kluiverts, the Bergkamps."
"Brobbey's doing exceptionally well for Sunderland. He's exceptionally good at what he does. He's a different kind of talent. He's a different kind of footballer. And he had to really work really hard to get where he is now."
