Khazri improving at Sunderland, says Cattermole

Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole has praised the impact made by Wahbi Khazri, after the Tunisian was given his first start for the Black Cats since October.

Khazri played a key role in his side’s 2-2 draw against West Ham United last weekend having been out of favour with manager David Moyes, who had criticised him for a lack of end product.

The 26-year-old took his chance by scoring direct from a corner in the first half, which ended Sunderland’s run of over 11 hours without a goal in the Premier League, and creating several other openings.

Moyes’ side need something of a miracle to avoid relegation, as they’re nine points adrift of safety with six games left, but Cattermole is hoping Khazri can make a difference.

Cattermole said: “Behind the scenes, the feeling in the dressing room before the game was good.

“We had a couple of changes in the team and that gave everyone a lift.

“It was nice to have Wahbi out there with us. He’s a great lad, and he’s worked really hard.

“He hasn’t played, and he’s going to get fitter, but he’s played 90-odd minutes there for the first time in a long time and that’s real credit to him.

“That’s as positive as I’ve felt after a game for a long time, and if we have to start with a draw, we’ll start with a draw.

“But I think you’ll definitely see us look to build on that.”