Aji Alese earned his first start for Sunderland since January in the Championship against Millwall.
While Sunderland defender Aji Alese has had a frustrating season, the Black Cats defender now appears to be ready to go following an injury-plagued year.
The 23-year-old had surgery on a thigh ailment last summer after a recurrence of a condition he experienced in February of last year, and he has made only six Championship appearances this season. However, Alese’s strong achievements when he first joined Sunderland from West Ham persuaded the club to offer him a new contract last month, extending it until 2027.
Alese made his first Sunderland start since January, as the Black Cats lost 1-0 against Millwall at the Stadium of Light. Still, the 23-year-old’s performance was one of the few bright spots on a dismal afternoon.
The defender began on the left side of a back three, naturally adapting to the position as a left-footed player who had previously played at centre-back for West Ham. Alese has played more games as a left-back for Sunderland, allowing the Black Cats to shift their structure in the second half.
Alese has shown to be a tremendous asset to Sunderland in both positions, providing height, strength, and a determination to take advantage of opportunities. Despite the paucity of clear-cut chances for either side during the Millwall game, Alese surged past winger Jack Clarke before trying a low cross that resulted in a Sunderland corner.
There were undoubtedly a few rusty moments, with the defender giving up control in the buildup to Millwall’s goal. Nonetheless, this was a promising performance overall.From the former West Ham player.
Alese will now seek to gain confidence in Sunderland’s final two Championship matches of the season, against Watford and Sheffield Wednesday, which will face less scrutiny because the Black Cats will undoubtedly play in the Championship next season. It will be extremely beneficial for the defense to have a full preseason this summer. Following that, Sunderland should have a valuable asset in their possession for the foreseeable future.
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