Le Fee 'a huge asset' to Black Cats - Gabbiadini

Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini says Enzo le Fee "is a huge asset" to the Black Cats after the attacking midfielder signed a new deal until 2031.

Le Fee, who joined permanently from Roma following promotion to the Premier League, has scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in 64 appearances for the club.

"It's good news because there has been a lot of anxiety around Brian Brobbey and Le Fee's recent performances, with people asking whether Sunderland can keep hold of them," said Gabbiadini on BBC Radio Newcastle.

"He's one of those players that is just a fans' favourite because of the quality that he brings and the character he shows on the field.

"He's quite a calm person, but when he gets on the field he wants to express himself and be on the ball to play those killer passes that quite often slice open defences.

"He's a huge asset to Sunderland and him signing was a real turning point in the club's progress.

"Is he going to be here for the next four years? I really hope so, but if he carries on the trajectory he's on at the moment then it would mean the club would have to constantly be in European spots.

"Players are ambitious and they want to play at the highest level. They want to test themselves against the best. But that's the more cold-hearted view on it and we just need to see what happens."

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