Luke O’Nien kicked off Sunderland’s new season with his first goal of the campaign.
Earlier this month, O’Nien was named the club’s captain, while Dan Neil was given the team captain’s armband.
Although this initially suggested that O’Nien might not be a regular starter, he reclaimed his usual spot in the opening match against Cardiff City.
The 29-year-old found the back of the net just over 30 minutes into the game, heading in from close range after a well-placed free-kick from Patrick Roberts was nodded down by Dennis Cirkin.
Jack Clarke later added a second goal, securing an important three points for the Black Cats to begin the season.
O’Nien thanks Dennis Cirkin for his ‘annual tap in’
Last season, O’Nien took over three months to score his first goal, so he’ll be pleased to have made an immediate impact in Wales.
The center-back humorously acknowledged his goal on Instagram, writing: “My annual tap in courtesy of @dennis cirkin. Tag your mate that would miss this from a yard out.”
Should O’Nien retain his place in Sunderland’s starting XI?
O’Nien’s inclusion in the lineup was guaranteed due to Dan Ballard’s injury, but it would be surprising if he doesn’t keep his spot for most of the season.
He has been a consistent presence under every manager Sunderland has had and has often played a crucial role in organizing and leading a very young team.
O’Nien performed ‘very well’ against Cardiff, making more clearances (5) than any other player, winning 100% of his headers, and making two interceptions.
While O’Nien is sometimes scapegoated for Sunderland’s poor performances, he was arguably one of the better players last season and appears poised to have a positive impact under Regis Le Bris as well.
He is likely to compete with Aji Alese for most of the campaign, but if both continue to impress in Ballard’s absence, it could be the Arsenal academy product who struggles to reclaim his spot.
The 24-year-old is one of Sunderland’s top players and recently signed a new deal at the Stadium of Light, but there’s a good chance O’Nien and Alese could form a strong partnership in the coming weeks.
Although Alese was initially expected to compete with Cirkin for the left-back position, Saturday’s performance suggests he won’t be easily displaced now that he’s fit.
