The former Aston Villa winger does not however look to be impressing the Sunderland hierarchy.
Charles N’Zogbia (L) in action against Sunderland
Sunderland played their first pre-season game yesterday, defeating Hartlepool 3-0 at Victoria Park.
Two goals from Jermain Defoe sandwiched a Wahbi Khazri finish as Sunderland cruised to a victory to get their summer started – in a game overshadowed by Sam Allardyce’s impending appointment as the new England manager.
It was also a game that saw wholesale changes in the second-half – with plenty of the club’s young talents getting an opportunity to shine.
Next England manager Sam Allardyce
But the captain in the second-half is certainly more experienced. Trialist Charles N’Zogbia, released by Aston Villa in the summer, was handed the captain’s armband as the most experienced player on the pitch.
Charles N’Zogbia in action with Arsenal’s Santi Cazorla and Alexis Sanchez
Villa fans, who became increasingly frustrated at the Frenchman, will wonder how he ended up wearing the armband for Sunderland last night.
However, despite being handed the armband, it would appear that N’Zogbia may not have done enough to earn himself a deal at the Stadium of Light.
Charles N’Zogbia (R) in action with Newcastle’s Jack Colback
The Sunderland Echo reports that he played fairly poor in his appearance and that it looks unlikely he will be handed a contract from Sunderland – despite the fact the club are on the verge of a managerial change.
It will certainly be interesting to see just where N’Zogbia does turn up this summer.
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