Granit Xhaka credits Sunderland team spirit for unbeaten run at the Stadium of Light

Despite being reduced to ten men following Reinildo Mandava's red card in the 34th minute, the Black Cats demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline to secure a point.

Aston Villa broke their goal drought in the 67th minute through Matty Cash's long-range strike. However, Sunderland responded swiftly, with Wilson Isidor scoring the equaliser 15 minutes later, assisted by club captain Granit Xhaka.

Xhaka, who joined Sunderland after a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, has been instrumental in the club's strong start to the season.

Reflecting on the team's performances, he stated, "It is not the consequence of luck; it is how we work. We have the team spirit together, togetherness, the mentality, what we put day by day in the gym on the pitch."

Sunderland's next fixtures include challenging away matches against Nottingham Forest and Manchester United, following their elimination from the Carabao Cup by Huddersfield Town.

Xhaka remains optimistic about the team's progress, adding, "We are still in the beginning. We have still many things to improve. But one thing today showed myself but as well the team that is very hard to beat us."

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