Aji Alese started for Sunderland against Millwall in the Black Cats’ Championship game, his first since January.
Although Sunderland defender Aji Alese has had a frustrating season thus far, the Black Cats defender appears to be fully recovered from his season-ending injuries.
The 23-year-old has only made six Championship appearances this season after undergoing surgery on a thigh ailment last summer following a recurrence of an injury he sustained in February of last year. However, Alese’s stellar play when he initially joined Sunderland from West Ham led the Black Cats to extend his contract until 2027 last month through a fresh agreement.
Alese was given his first Sunderland start since January as the Black Cats lost 1-0 to Millwall at the Stadium of Light after being cautiously guided back. Nevertheless, on a dreary afternoon, the 23-year-old’s performance was one of the few positive things.
As a left-footed player who primarily played center-back while advancing through the ranks at West Ham, the defender began the game on the left of a back three and naturally adjusted to the position. Alese’s increased playing time at Sunderland as a left-back allowed the Black Cats to reorganize their formation in the second half.
Alese has demonstrated that he can be a useful asset for Sunderland in both positions. He brings height, strength, and a desire to take initiative when the chance arises. There were moments during the Millwall match when Alese moved past winger Jack Clarke and attempted to deliver a low cross that resulted in a Sunderland corner, despite the fact that neither team had many clear-cut opportunities.
It makes sense that there were a few shaky moments, as the defender gave up possession in the run-up to Millwall’s goal. Overall though, this was a promising performance.from the former player for West Ham.
Now that the Black Cats will undoubtedly be playing in the Championship the following season, Alese will be hoping to develop more confidence in Sunderland’s final two Championship games of the season, against Watford and Sheffield Wednesday, with less attention on those games. The defense will then benefit greatly from having a full preseason this summer. Following that, Sunderland need to have a genuine asset for the upcoming years.
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