Sunderland have had one of the most impressive stories in the Premier League so far. Were you surprised by how well they did?
I was very impressed and also surprised that they made it through the playoffs. When a team goes up, the first and main objective is to stay up, and that is something difficult to achieve. They have spent some money in the summer, but that does not guarantee results or good football. It needs time to gel. They have had a great start to the season and are on their way to being safe.
Advertisement
It sounds strange, but there was a time when you needed between 30 and 34 points to be safe. I think they’re 26 or something now. So, it might suggest that they are (close to being) safe somewhere mid-season. It may also be a fact that when teams play Sunderland, they are also a little surprised by the quality they face.
They are making a name for themselves. That will make it more difficult for them to reach the second half of the season. Teams will be set up slightly differently for them. And if they finish in the top half of the table, which you know is a top ten position, it will be a massive season for them. More than anyone would have expected. If they go down a little bit and are still safe, it will still be a huge season for them.
What do you think of the Tyne-Wear derby at the weekend and what was your impression as a Sunderland player?
It is a game that people are always waiting for. It’s not always the best games you’ll see in terms of quality because there’s a lot of heart and passion in them; Sometimes the mind gets a little lost. I think there was a time when every time a Sunderland player made a tackle, the crowd would start applauding.
Advertisement
It’s good that they got the result (1-0 victory), but if you look at it from another perspective, if you look at the statistics, the match was quite close. It could have gone both ways. Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs did quite well, he needed to make some saves there. Like I said, it was a close game. Something positive for Sunderland fans, (especially) after so many years. It’s been so long since they played this Tyne-Wear derby that everyone was really looking forward and excited for this game. See the celebrations and the whole atmosphere before the game. The Stadium of Light was illuminated.
It was a special day, especially for Sunderland fans. And now (fans) are saying maybe Sunderland will finish above Newcastle in the Premier League. I don’t think that’s the most important thing we can take away from this game. As I said, Sunderland are already having a successful season; What happens next is not so important as long as they stay awake.
Marseille has a great reputation, especially when it comes to football. Can you tell me a little about your experience playing for Marseille?
I really enjoyed being there for two seasons. I really enjoyed playing for Marseille. When things are going well, it’s amazing to be there, and when things aren’t going well, it can be a little more difficult for a player. Obviously they are very demanding, very passionate; It is a lively place. I have been lucky enough to visit him over the past few years. When I played, they hadn’t closed the rooftop yet, so now it’s closed and the fans are very loud and lively. It’s something I really enjoyed. Unfortunately I finished 3rd and 2nd. I would have really liked to win the league with Marseille. In fact, they won it the season I left, ending an 18-year wait. It’s a special place and there’s a really passionate and vibrant football atmosphere.
Bolo Zenden spoke exclusively to Get French Football News on behalf of casino rhythms.
GFFN | Nick Hartland