Charlie Austin Backs Sunderland to Avoid Relegation After Palace Draw

Former Premier League striker Charlie Austin has once again voiced his confidence in Sunderland’s ability to stay in the top flight this season, describing the newly promoted side as a “breath of fresh air” following their gritty 0–0 draw against Crystal Palace at the weekend.

The Black Cats, led by head coach Régis Le Bris, have made an encouraging start to life back in the Premier League, collecting seven points from their first four matches and currently sitting seventh in the table — four points clear of the relegation zone.

🗣️ Austin: “They Will Stay Up”

Speaking on Sky Sports News, Austin reiterated his belief that Sunderland have what it takes to avoid the drop.

“17th and above. I don’t know, there’s just something there,” he said. “I just feel like the standout signing — and we’re going to keep talking about it — was Granit Xhaka. He’s been brilliant for Sunderland to get back in the Premier League.”

Austin praised the club’s ambition and recruitment strategy, highlighting Xhaka’s leadership and influence as a key factor in their early success.

“Sunderland, I think they’ve been a breath of fresh air since they’ve come back to the Premier League. Nobody can come out and say, ‘You didn’t give it your all.’ They’ve brought new players in, spent big money, and now they’re in the situation that they are now — so you have to say full credit to Sunderland.”

🧠 Xhaka’s Impact: Experience and Authority

Austin has consistently pointed to Granit Xhaka as the defining addition to Sunderland’s squad. The Swiss international, signed from Bayer Leverkusen and immediately named club captain, has brought a wealth of experience and composure to the midfield.

“He brings that experience, that know-how, and he’ll be able to help the younger players but also lead from the front and dominate in the middle,” Austin said earlier this month. “For the three games that he’s played, he’s been superb.”

Xhaka’s presence has helped Sunderland transition smoothly into Premier League football, offering tactical discipline and vocal leadership in a squad filled with youthful talent.

⚔️ Palace Draw Shows Grit

Saturday’s goalless draw at Selhurst Park marked Sunderland’s first away point of the season and showcased their defensive resilience. While not a spectacle, the result demonstrated Le Bris’ ability to organize his side and grind out results — a vital trait for any team fighting to stay up.

🔮 A Promising Path Ahead

With a blend of experienced signings and emerging talent, Sunderland have defied early expectations and earned praise from pundits like Austin. Their proactive approach in the transfer market and strong start to the campaign suggest they are well-equipped to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

As the season unfolds, Sunderland’s challenge will be to maintain consistency and build on their early momentum. But if Austin’s instincts prove correct, the Black Cats may be writing a new chapter — one of Premier League survival and long-term growth.