Victor Anichebe has made a huge impact on Sunderland and club manager, David Moyes isn’t pretending about the Nigerian’s huge impact.
There is absolutely no question about it – since the powerhouse striker has started in the side, the Black Cats are a team transformed.
And boss David Moyes has now also pointed to the impact Anichebe has had on Jermain Defoe.
The leading scorer had experienced a quiet October, though that has more to do with a lack of chances created rather than any weakness on Defoe’s part.
However, the ex-England star now has three goals in his last four appearances – the same tally as Anichebe – giving him eight in total.
“Victor is helping Jermain,” explained Moyes. “If you remember there was a period when Jermain wasn’t scoring all the time. “But Victor’s in and suddenly it’s looking as if they’ve got goals in them.”
Moyes has been pleased how the revitalised former Everton and West Brom striker can operate in a variety of positions.
He’s given us a platform to build from,” said the manager. “Sometimes we alter the roles on the left, right and middle.
“It may be something we need to do to suit the opposition we are playing, changing things as required.” But one thing Moyes is sure about, is the power and belief the Scouser has brought to the team. And he is aware he must keep telling him just how good he is!
“If he keeps that body moving then he’s a hard man to stop,” smiled Moyes. “You could see that [on Saturday], he had one great run late in the second half, didn’t he? “He needs to be keep being reminded he can do it
BUZI BROWN 