Xhaka vows fire as Sunderland fans gear up for historic Europa return

Granit Xhaka has promised a fiery atmosphere from Sunderland on their long-awaited return to European football, with both players and supporters preparing for the match against AZ Alkmaar. The club is set to face Dutch side AZ in an opening Europa League tie at the Stadium of Light, marking the first competitive game played there since 1973 after more than five decades without a European fixture. Fans are anticipating a raucous atmosphere that could break decibel records as local supporters descend on Wearside alongside visitors from across England and the Netherlands to witness what is being described by Noel Gallagher and club historian Rob Mason as history in the making.