Van Aanholt reveals reason behind Sunderland’s shaky defence

Mark Scott
Patrick van Aanholt: Set for Palace switch

Patrick van Aanholt: Set for Palace switch

Patrick van Aanholt has opened up about Sunderland’s problems in defence after their second-half collapse in the 3-0 defeat to Everton.

David Moyes’ side have conceded in every game so far this season and the Dutchman has rather worringly revealed that the Black Cats’ new-look defence are suffering from a communication breakdown as not everyone can speak English.

Van Aanholt said in the Chronicle: “Of course the new players need time to adapt.

“We saw against Everton, we had the right-back Manquillo and at centre-back, Papy.

“Papy is familiar with the Premier League, having played for Chelsea, but we need to help them in training and try to speak the same language because it’s very hard to understand them on the pitch.

“But we’re training every day with them, so we’re trying to explain to them how to adapt, how to play, and they’re taking it very well.

“We just want to move forward now.”

Sunderland face a tough trip to Tottenham this weekend before home games against Crystal Palace and West Brom.