Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has praised Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, calling him the Premier League’s best signing of the season. Xhaka delivered another top-class performance on Monday night as Sunderland drew 1-1 with Everton at the Stadium of Light.

The Swiss midfielder scored just after the restart to level the game, cancelling out Iliman Ndiaye’s brilliant first-half finish for Everton. His goal and overall display earned him the Man of the Match award, showcasing his leadership and class in the heart of Sunderland’s midfield.

Before the match kicked off, Carragher had already picked Xhaka as his signing of the season. Speaking on Sky Sports, he highlighted the former Arsenal star’s massive impact, saying he has been just as influential for Sunderland as Erling Haaland has been for Manchester City. Carragher stressed that no player has lifted their club more than Xhaka this season.

After the game, Carragher doubled down on his praise, describing Xhaka as “fantastic again,” adding that he was “head and shoulders above almost everyone on the pitch.” His performance further proves why his move back to England has been one of the standout deals of the campaign.

Xhaka, 33, returned to the Premier League after helping Bayer Leverkusen win the Bundesliga title under Xabi Alonso. With nearly 300 appearances for Arsenal between 2016 and 2023, his experience and quality have clearly played a huge role in transforming Sunderland’s season.