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David Moyes defends Sunderland’s Lamine Kone

General view - Stadium of Light Sunderland (Reuters)
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Lamine Kone has been accused of putting in half-hearted displays by Sunderland fans this season.

Sunderland boss David Moyes has insisted to the Chronicle that Lamine Kone has been putting in his full effort.

Kone has faced a great deal of criticism for his performances, as Sunderland have struggled against relegation.

The Ivorian defender has been accused of putting half-hearted performances for the Black Cats this term on a regular basis by his own supporters (HITC).

Lamine Kone scores the second goal for Sunderland

Kone was taken out of Sunderland’s starting line-up during their last match against West Ham United.

But Moyes insists that Kone does not have an attitude problem.

“I think he’s giving his all,” the Scottish boss said. “I just think he’s had some performances that haven’t hit standards.

“That’s why we chose to make a change last week.”

Sunderland's Lamine Kone warms up before the match

Kone was one of Sunderland’s most integral players as they avoided the drop last season.

The powerful centre-back was brilliant in Sam Allardyce’s side, but he has never reached the same level this term.

Kone now looks likely to leave Sunderland, regardless of what division they are in next season.

Sunderland are next in action later this evening, when they take on Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.

Sunderland's Lamine Kone scores their first goal