Premier League newcomers Sunderland slipped up on Saturday afternoon at relegation-threatened West Ham United. However, the match will be remembered for a heated argument between captain Xhaka and a home fan.
Under coach Nuno Espirito Santo, West Ham United is slowly picking up speed, with the Hammers winning their last three competitive games and making contact with safety. With one game in hand, Nottingham Forest are now only two points ahead of West Ham. On Saturday afternoon, the London club, threatened with relegation, earned a deserved 3-1 home win over basement club Sunderland. The hosts had already sealed the deal in the first half: Summerville’s opening goal (14th minute) was followed by two more from captain Bowen (28th minute, penalty) and Mateus Fernandes (43rd minute).
After the break, Sunderland tried to stage a comeback, but only managed to score a consolation goal through former Leipzig striker Brobbey (66th minute). However, the match will not be remembered for the promoted team’s sixth league defeat of the season.
Sunderland captain Xhaka got into such a heated argument with a West Ham fan that referee Thomas Bramall interrupted the game to seek a conversation with Hammers coach Nuno Espirito Santo.
Xhaka was unable to help his team for the first time this season due to an ankle injury, but he sat on the bench to provide moral support. Videos circulated after the final whistle showing Xhaka turning around and gesticulating wildly at a man, engaging in a verbal clinch with him for several minutes.
Several stewards rushed over to calm the situation down. After the final whistle, Xhaka argued with another fan but was pulled away by staff.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris said afterwards: “I really don’t know what happened. It’s always a shame when something like this happens.” The defeat sees the Black Cats drop to 10th place.
