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Nine duels won, 12 ball recoveries: Djilobodji impresses in Sunderland loss

Sunderland manager David Moyes (REUTERS)
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The defender was handed his debut in the 2-1 loss to Middlesbrough on Sunday.

Sunderland's Papy Djilobodji in action with Middlesbrough's George FriendSunderland’s Papy Djilobodji in action with Middlesbrough’s George Friend

New Sunderland signing Papy Djilobodji was in impressive form despite his side’s defeat to Middlesbrough this weekend.

The defender was David Moyes’ new signing at the Stadium of Light this summer and was handed his debut the clash with their rivals on Sunday.

It did not prove to be a happy afternoon for him though as two goals from Christhian Stuani saw Aitor Karanka’s side to a 2-1 win.

Middlesbrough's Christian Stuani celebrates scoring their second goalMiddlesbrough’s Christian Stuani celebrates scoring their second goal

It was a disappointing afternoon all round for the Black Cats, who failed to properly test Boro until the second half.

But while Djilobodji will have been unhappy to concede two goals, his all round display was an encouraging one.

TeamMatchWon TackleInterception WonBall RecoveryAerial WonDuel WonEffective ClearanceAccurate PassPassing AccuracyMins Played
Papy DjilobodjiSunderlandSunderland vs Middlesbrough13127954570%90

He posted 81 touches in total, the most of any Sunderland player, with just one of those proving to be unsuccessful.

Defensively he was solid, winning one tackle and three interceptions as well as managing 12 ball recoveries, the most of any player in the game.

Sunderland's Papy Djilobodji in action with Middlesbrough's Antonio BarraganSunderland’s Papy Djilobodji in action with Middlesbrough’s Antonio Barragan

He also won nine defensive dues and seven aerial duels, the latter again being the most managed by any player, as well as posting five effective clearances.

His passing was also solid as he registered 45 accurate passes and enjoyed an overall passing accuracy of 70% in a display that suggests he could prove to be a smart signing.

Sunderland manager David MoyesSunderland manager David Moyes