For the first time in a generation, Sunderland supporters were able to witness their beloved side competing in a European encounter earlier this week.

The atmosphere, occasion and passion were off the charts at the Stadium of Light, which no doubt was reflected in the performance delivered by Regis Le Bris’ men.

The Black Cats secured a 1-0 victory over Dutch side AZ Alkmaar on Wednesday night and kick-started their Europa League campaign in the best fashion possible.

Such a result will give the fans the belief they could go all the way and win such a competition this term, but if they are to do so, one player will have to ensure he remains on top form.

Why Le Fee is crucial in Sunderland's attempts to claim European glory

Enzo Le Fee is one of the few players within the Sunderland senior ranks who possesses key European experience prior to their move to the Stadium of Light.

The Frenchman, who joined from Roma in January 2025, previously featured in such a competition during his time in Italy and even for homeland club Rennes in 2023/24.

His showing in the North East on Wednesday night was one full of quality, as the 26-year-old led Le Bris’ men to a memorable victory during the first game of the European campaign.

Le Fee was tasked with the responsibility of tucking home a penalty after being fouled in the box, and he made amends for his miss against Arsenal to net the only goal of the encounter.

The attacking midfielder’s underlying stats also showcase his quality within forward areas, as he often provided the biggest amount of quality from any player in the Black Cats ranks.

He managed to create four chances during his 90-minute showing earlier this week, subsequently registering more than any other player who started for the hosts.

The forward also managed to complete 100% of the dribbles he attempted, whilst winning 80% of his ground duels - which highlights his incredible talent at both ends of the pitch.

Why Sunderland’s 9/10 signing is becoming more important than Le Fee

There’s no denying that Sunderland have pulled off some remarkable pieces of transfer business since returning to the Premier League, which no doubt aided the success endured last season.

Granit Xhaka’s arrival from Bayer Leverkusen was arguably the most eye-catching deal, with the Swiss international providing needed quality and experience to cope with the demands of the Premier League.

The 33-year-old has only missed league games since making the £20m move to the North East last summer, arguably becoming one of the club’s most important players.

He’s since formed an excellent midfield partnership with Noah Sadiki at the Stadium of Light, after the 21-year-old completed his own move from Union Saint-Gilloise last summer.

The DR Congo international arrived for a bargain fee in the region of £15m, with very few Black Cats supporters knowing what to expect from the youngster.

However, 12 months on from his arrival in the North East, it’s safe to say he’s made himself a fan-favourite at the club and become a vital component of Le Bris’ setup.

Like Xhaka, he started the recent European clash with AZ Alkmaar and had a phenomenal match - with his stats showcasing why he’s one of the club’s most important players.

Sadiki featured for the entirety of the 1-0 triumph and completed 85% of the passes he attempted, with the midfielder offering a calm and composed presence in front of the back four.

Without the ball is where the 21-year-old starred most, as the youngster managed to make three tackles, two clearances and a staggering six ball recoveries.

The latter of the aforementioned figures was the highest of any player in Le Bris’ side, subsequently showcasing his dominant nature without the ball at his feet.

Such quality often goes under the radar at the Stadium of Light, but his talent in defensive areas hands the likes of Le Fee to star within the final third.

Given his bargain fee and impact in the Premier League since such a move, Sadiki’s deal is easily a 9/10, with the midfielder having the potential to improve further in the years ahead.

He, Xhaka and Le Fee will no doubt have a huge part to play in Europe this season, with the trio likely to be the deciding factor in any chance of securing the Europa League title.