Sunderland’s Win Over Stoke Highlights Wilson Isidor’s Struggles
Sunderland returned to winning ways on Saturday lunchtime with a hard-fought victory over Stoke City, ending a six-game winless streak. Local hero Tommy Watson secured the three points with two crucial goals, helping Sunderland come from behind to win for the first time this season—a display of resilience that will have pleased manager Régis Le Bris.
However, one player’s continued struggles stood out during the victory: striker Wilson Isidor.
Isidor Falters When Sunderland Needed Him Most
Isidor has led the line for Sunderland all season and boasts five goals so far, but the recent goal drought has raised concerns about his form. Despite the team’s overall success against Stoke, the Frenchman’s performance was far from convincing, and his inefficiency in front of goal was glaring.
Across 89 minutes, Isidor registered an xG of 0.79, with three shots on target and one off, but missed two clear opportunities to score. He briefly had the ball in the net, but the effort was correctly ruled offside. His finishing lacked sharpness, especially in the first half, and his impact diminished further after the break, highlighted by his mere 18 touches throughout the game.
Isidor also struggled to hold up the ball and failed to make threatening runs into dangerous areas, appearing low on confidence and ideas.
Time for a Change: Aaron Connolly Deserves His Shot
Given Isidor’s current struggles, it may be time for a change up front. Aaron Connolly, described as “fantastic,” offers the dynamism and intelligence that Sunderland needs. Connolly is more effective at finding space behind the opposition defense and making the well-timed runs that capitalize on the deliveries from creative players like Tommy Watson and Patrick Roberts.
While pairing Connolly with Isidor once seemed like an ideal solution, it may now be best to give Isidor a break. A reset on the bench could help reignite his form, while Connolly’s hunger and energy could pose a serious threat to Bristol City’s defense in Tuesday’s game.
If Sunderland is to build on their win against Stoke, they must make the tough decision to prioritize form and adaptability over past performances, starting with a change up front.
