The defender was switched to a left wing-back role.
Sunderland’s Patrick van Aanholt scores their first goal
Sunderland manager David Moyes has admitted to the Chronicle that Patrick van Aanholt is probably best suited to a left wing back role.
The Dutchman was the Black Cats hero over the weekend as he scored the equalising goal in the draw with West Bromwich Albion.
He found himself playing a new role in the game as Moyes elected to switch him to a left wing back role instead of using him as a natural left back.
Sunderland’s Patrick van Aanholt celebrates scoring their first goal
His goal clearly demonstrated that it was a wise move for the Scot to make but he insists he still wants to see Van Aanholt improve defensively regardless.
“I think he’s probably a wing-back, he showed that,” he told the Chronicle.
“I’m pleased with the goals he’s come up with I know that’s what he’s capable of but I’ve not been so pleased with some of the positions he’s been taking up defensive-wise.”
“I’m not saying I will (play him at wing-back). I just felt that he needs to improve on his defending because we know what he brings going forward.”
Sunderland’s Patrick van Aanholt looks dejected
Despite indicating Moyes has not made a decision on Van Aanholt’s future role but moving him to a left wing back would be a wise move to make.
He appears to be well suited to the role and his eye for goal is more than welcome in a side that is overly reliant on Jermain Defoe to get their goals.
Of course, that will require Moyes changing his tactics long-term and it will be interesting to see if he is willing to do so.
Sunderland manager David Moyes
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