Trai Hume captained Northern Ireland to a defeat in the Nations League yesterday.
During their 2-0 victory over Luxembourg last week, the Sunderland defender took home the captain’s armband for the first time.
They lost 1-0 in Southeast Europe and finished third in their group, thus their trip to Bulgaria didn’t quite go as planned.
While Hume was praised for being a “standout performer” in the match against Luxembourg, he wasn’t quite as effective yesterday.
The right-back, in his fifteenth cap for Northern Ireland, was rated 6/10 overall for his effort yesterday night.
“Skipper worked hard but was another who had a tough night,” stated Belfast Live.
The Sunderland defender was chosen by manager Michael O’Neill to captain the team for the second straight game, reverting to his more comfortable position as right back, according to the Belfast Telegraph. Significant challenge against cunning opponent Ilia Gruev and warning for a hasty challenge in the end.
More than any other player on the pitch, Hume recorded 54 touches, 31 passes, one header, one interception, two clearances, and four successful tackles.
Given his importance to Sunderland, it is hardly surprising that the 22-year-old made the most tackles.
Hume hasn’t had much to do for Sunderland this season
In the previous season, Hume easily had the most tackles (152) in the Championship, far more than Sam Morsy, who came in second (119).
However, he has only made eight tackles this season, which isn’t a reflection on him; rather, it indicates that Sunderland isn’t giving attackers many opportunities in their own half.
Because the majority of the Black Cats’ action and dominance take place in the middle of the park, Jobe Bellingham has completed the most tackles of any player on the team.
Although Hume won’t be accustomed to playing so little defence this season, the club will undoubtedly benefit from it and he will still be counted on when needed.
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