‘He deserves that’: Sunderland coach now hints at first league start for ‘talented’ 21 y/o tonight

Adil Aouchiche is expected to make his maiden senior appearance for Sunderland.

According to The Northern Echo, Mark Venus has conceded that he ‘deserves’ to be near the team after a strong start to life on Wearside.

Adil Aouchiche made 11 appearances for Lorient in Ligue 1 but failed to score a professional goal before moving to the Championship.

The Frenchman joined Sunderland on transfer deadline day, but did not make his debut until the 3-1 win over QPR in mid-September.

Tony Mowbray earlier stated that Aouchiche was expected to make his first start for the club against Leicester City following a string of outstanding cameos, but the midfielder was forced out due to injury.

Aouchiche scored his first goal for the club after coming on against Birmingham City, and the Black Cats’ weekend setback to Plymouth Argyle might possibly give the 21-year-old a starting spot tonight.

Speaking in the pre-match press conference, assistant coach Mark Venus said: “He has to be close to the team, he deserves that.

“I think of all the players [we brought in over the summer], I think he’s the one who seems to have settled in the quickest. He’s a talented boy and his performances from the bench, I think he’s made everyone take notice. I think you have to take notice of him.

“He scored a brilliant goal for us [against Birmingham City], he’s created opportunities, he went very close for us against Plymouth.

“He influences the team when he’s on the pitch, he’s a talented individual. He’s important to us, you can see that. He’s getting stronger and better as you can see from watching the games.”

 

Can Adil Aouchiche spark the fire needed in Sunderland’s attack?

Adil Aouchiche has consistently made a significant impact whenever he’s come off the bench this season, averaging 1.6 key passes per game, a stat only surpassed by Jack Clarke and Patrick Roberts.

Given the team’s current struggle to score, having a confident player like Aouchiche could be a real advantage.

While Jobe Bellingham had a break from international duty, a short stint on the bench might benefit him as well, and Aouchiche seems like the perfect replacement.

Facing a struggling Huddersfield Town at home presents a great opportunity to shake things up and give other players a chance to shine by contributing goals or assists.

Eliezer Mayenda should be eager for his first start, especially against a defense that has conceded 29 goals in 17 games. It’s a promising setup for him to showcase his skills.