Sunderland cannot afford to let Granit Xhaka go after 95% Switzerland World Cup display

Sunderland should remain firm in their stance not to allow Granit Xhaka to leave the club after a standout World Cup display.

Xhaka has been linked with a move to Turkish club Besiktas this summer, and he was the subject of transfer interest from Juventus in January.

The 33-year-old only made a surprise move to Sunderland last summer, which turned out to be smart business by the club.

Xhaka was appointed club captain upon his arrival and led the Black Cats into the Europa League in their first season back in the top flight for eight years.

The midfielder only missed four matches in the Premier League, and was a considerable miss to the side when not available.

Europa League football next season means manager Regis Le Bris may have to manage Xhaka's minutes across the campaign to get the best out of the midfielder once again.

Xhaka though can not currently take a break as the Switzerland international is also an important player on the international stage for his country.

Despite Switzerland's shock 1-1 draw against Qatar, Xhaka showed why Sunderland need to keep him at the Stadium of Light this summer.

Successfully completing 95 per cent of his passes, Xhaka controlled the game for Switzerland in the middle of the park.

Xhaka successfully completed all his passes into the final third, made six progressive carries, nine recoveries and made one interception.

Playing the full 90 minutes, Xhaka shows no signs of slowing down despite concerns raised to Football Insider by former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness.

Sunderland could have another busy summer transfer window in preparation for their campaign in Europe.

Celtic midfielder Arne Engels is on their radar, in a move which could cost the club up to £25million.

Nottingham Forest and Fulham are expected to compete with Sunderland for the Belgian.

Any business could be dependent on whether Le Bris loses any key players, with interest having also been registered in goalkeeper Robin Roefs.