Granit Xhaka is set to rejoin Sunderland next week when the squad returns from their pre-season camp in the United States. The 33-year-old was an integral part of the Wearsiders' Europa League qualification and is expected to be central to the side again this season.
Sunderland rejected an offer from Chelsea for Xhaka earlier this summer, with Xabi Alonso's side keen on a reunion at Stamford Bridge. After an opening bid was turned down and talks with the club's hierarchy, the Switzerland international made clear his intention to stay at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats captain also took to social media this week to express his excitement about leading the club into Europe.
Le Bris: 'Case closed' on Xhaka interest
Le Bris had already described transfer interest in his captain as "case closed" during the tour. Asked whether he had spoken to Xhaka since, he said: "After the World Cup, no. Because it's more or less a rule [not to contact players on their holidays]."
"We want to give them an opportunity to rest and enjoy time with their family but they're still in touch with the club," Le Bris added. "It's really clear, we're looking to see him next week because he sets the standards."
Xhaka's leadership vital for Sunderland
Le Bris underlined the midfielder's importance to the squad. "I think the standards here are really good, but Granit is so important as a player. Also as a leader. The way he can influence the whole behaviour of the squad. It's going to be really positive when he joins the team next week."
Pre-season finales and returning players
Sunderland face Championship side Wrexham later today in their final pre-season match in the United States before returning to England. Xhaka, new signing Thomas Meunier, Chemsdine Talbi, Jocelin Ta Bi and Wilson Isidor will link up with the group next week.
Isidor had returned to England to deal with a personal issue but should be back with the squad. Sunderland will step up preparations with games against RC Lens and Rennes before their Premier League opener against Ipswich Town.
Le Bris: Culture gives Sunderland an edge
Looking ahead to the new campaign, Le Bris said: "We have this season the privilege to build on something. Because last season, we created, I think, a strong culture throughout the year."
Le Bris explained: "We started with the idea to stay in the league and we were really focused on our defensive shape, with the ability to counter-attack, to create a situation for fast attacks after our regains and we were good on set-pieces as well. And progressively, we built other layers. And I think at the end of the season, we were really balanced with the ability to manage different situations properly."
He added: "So we have this advantage this season and even with the World Cup players [absent], we felt from the beginning that this culture is stronger. And with their comeback, gradually, they will get more game time. Then we'll be back in England with four or five new players, Granit, Chemsdine and so on. We build progressively the reconnection".
He continued: "So it's very positive from the beginning of the season. I think the fitness level is getting better, the energy is stronger now and e might be a bit tired tomorrow because the camp was focused also on the energy. So maybe the tank won't be full tomorrow but it's still positive."
