Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has received immense praise for his impact on the Black Cats this season, with the midfielder’s leadership and influence within the squad catching the attention of former players and pundits alike.

Xhaka has started all 22 Premier League matches, contributing five assists and providing a level of control, authority and consistency that has helped propel Sunderland into ninth place on 33 points – just four points off the top four.

Speaking on BBC Radio Newcastle, guest journalist Ian Murtagh waxed lyrical about the midfielder’s presence in the dressing room and on the pitch, and drew a comparison with one of the most transformative signings the area has seen.

“He’s the most influential signing in the North East since Kevin Keegan at Newcastle in 1982,” Murtagh said.

“I’m not saying necessarily the best, but in terms of influence, in terms of driving up the standards, in terms of communicating with his team-mates, I think there are huge similarities between the two – even though they’re 40 years apart.”