Khazri has made the one substitute appearance in the opening two games of the season.
Sunderland’s Wahbi Khazri
Sunderland manager David Moyes insists that Wahbi Khazri is part of his plans going forward despite the midfielder not starting either of the Black Cats first two games this season.
Moyes explained that a lack of fitness compared to other members of the squad has resulted in the player not starting in either the defeat to Manchester City, or against Middlesbrough, though he was used as a substitute on the opening day at the Etihad Stadium.
Sunderland manager David Moyes
The Sunderland boss is quoted in the Chronicle, saying: “Wahbi’s part of my plans. Just because he hasn’t featured in the first couple of games doesn’t mean he isn’t in my plans.
“Wahbi came back a week after everybody else, and I think he looked a little bit behind everyone else in the pre-season games.”
Moyes confirmed that Khazri will feature in tonight’s EFL Cup second round tie against Shrewsbury Town at the Stadium of Light as the Scot looks to get his first competitive win under his belt for the Wearsiders.
Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Passlack in action with Sunderland’s Wahbi Khazri
Khazri was one of several players who came in through the midway point of last season who had a positive effect on the club and ultimately helping it secure their place in the top flight for this season.
He provided the side with that little bit of quality from dead ball situations and a degree of intelligence on the ball which is always welcome to a side, and it will be pretty reassuring for the club that the 25-year-old has a role to play under Moyes.
The player was clearly valued by Moyes’s predecessor Sam Allardyce where he made 14 appearances, scoring two goals.
Sunderland manager David Moyes and Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
