Jules Ahoka: Sunderland star with 100% and 89% stats can save Regis Le Bris vs Chelsea - verdict

Sunderland midfielder Jules Ahoka should start against Chelsea on Sunday as manager Regis Le Bris fights to save his job after back-to-back defeats.

former Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris faces a critical weekend with his job under threat following a 2-0 Europa League loss to Dinamo Zagreb and just one win in six matches across all competitions.

Correspondent Oliver argues that 20-year-old midfielder Jules Ahoka deserves a starting place in Sunday's home clash against Chelsea. The DR Congo youth international, signed from Royal Antwerp for £8.6 million in the summer, impressed in midweek despite being substituted at half-time. In 225 minutes of action, Ahoka has yet to be dispossessed and has featured in four matches where Sunderland played the full 90 minutes without losing. Against Zagreb, he recorded 89% pass accuracy, won 100% of his ground duels (3/3) and made two successful tackles.

Ahoka ranks among Europa League's best-performing midfielders for non-penalty xG, duels won, touches in the opposition box and recoveries per 90 minutes. Le Bris has previously praised the midfielder's potential, physicality and tactical understanding, suggesting he is ready to step up against Premier League opposition.