Granit Xhaka and Sunderland have reached the 40-point mark in the Premier League, practically ensuring survival after returning to the elite of English football.
But midfielder Xhaka isn't satisfied with that – now he and the team are aiming for more.
After an eight-year absence, including a spell in League One, Sunderland returned to the Premier League last summer.
Pessimistic predictions, but Sunderland delivered
The predictions were pessimistic, with many pundits seeing the club as a candidate for immediate relegation. However, the Black Cats have surprised.
After the 1-0 victory over Leeds United, the team is ranked 11th and has touched the symbolic figure of 40 points - a total that usually guarantees survival.
In the last two seasons, 26 and 27 points have been enough to stay in the elite, but this season the race for survival is stronger.
West Ham, currently in the relegation zone, have 25 points with ten games to play. The record for the most expensive relegation in the 20-team era is held by West Ham, who were relegated with 42 points in the 2002/2003 season.
Xhaka's decisive role
Xhaka has been a key figure in this impressive season. His experience, leadership and composure in midfield have directly influenced the team's results. According to British media, he is considered one of the most influential players at Sunderland this season.
In the match against Leeds, Xhaka came off the bench due to an ankle injury he had sustained in January. Leeds had been the more dominant team up until the moment he came on, but his presence on the pitch brought stability and control to the game.
"We said at the beginning of the season that our target was 40 points. We achieved it and now we want more, because the hunger is great," Xhaka told TNT Sports.
Sunderland now have their sights set on a European spot, just four points away. However, the midfielder stresses the need to stay grounded: "We know where we've come from."
The European dream after more than 50 years
Sunderland have not played in a European competition since the 1973/74 season, when they were eliminated in the Cup Winners' Cup by Sporting Lisbon. The English club have never managed to make a big mark on the European stage.
Now, with Xhaka as leader, fans are dreaming of a return to the international stage – a success that would crown one of the finest seasons in the club's recent history. /Telegraph/
