£2 Million International Star Describes Difficulties With Life At Sunderland
Summer signing Nazariy Rusyn has opened up on his early struggles to settle into life at Sunderland following a move from Zorya Luhansk on transfer deadline day.
Despite coming to the Stadium of Light with a big reputation in Ukraine, Rusyn has had limited opportunities to showcase his talent, making merely four appearances for the Black Cats so far and not starting a single game.
Since the start of last season, the 24-year-old has scored 14 goals, all coming from his time with Zorya, including one at the start of the 2023/24 campaign before he signed a four-year deal with Sunderland.
Nonetheless, the centre-forward received a call-up to the Ukrainian national team this month for games against North Macedonia and Malta, although he is not in the squad today to face the former.
While on international duty, Rusyn spoke to outlet Tribuna and highlighted the difficulties he has faced since leaving his native country to join Sunderland [quotes via Chronicle Live]:
“I’ll say this – it’s like another planet. It’s hard for me because I don’t know the language – this is the main problem. Communication is very important for football players.
“It’s difficult, but that’s okay, I’m getting used to it little by little. Now the family will move and it will be easier,” he continued.
“I need time, I understand that I’m not in a hurry, I try to listen to the coach, do what he wants and just get used to it.”
Sunderland’s upcoming block of games before the next round of international fixtures looks gruelling, with matches against Stoke City, Leicester City, Norwich City, Swansea City and Birmingham City on the horizon.
Rusyn will be hoping he can play his part to help Tony Mowbray’s side gain as many points as possible from the 15 that are up for grabs.
Writer’s View
It would be unfair for anyone to get on Rusyn’s back just yet. Coming to a new league, especially to a big club, without any understanding of English can be incredibly difficult.
This season, or at least his first few months at Sunderland, may be a write-off until he settles in fully and can comprehend the demands of the league, his coach and the language.
