Topics: Granit Xhaka, Sunderland
Granit Xhaka gave strong thoughts on removing runners up medals and half and half scarves as he discussed football's controversial traditions for SPORTbible's "Game's Gone or Fair Play" segment.
Arguably the signing of the season, Xhaka has enjoyed a successful season back in the Premier League with Sunderland, producing a series of commanding and classy displays in the middle of the park.
The Swiss international featured in a 2-2 draw against his former club Arsenal back in November, with Brian Brobbey bagging a 94th minute equaliser.
However if Xhaka had been the scorer, would he have celebrated? The former Bayer Leverkusen midfielder told SPORTbible that he is not a fan of celebrating against former clubs.
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"A big fair play," Xhaka said in an exclusive interview.
"Speaking myself, I have now had four or five clubs and you have good times and people you are still in contact with. The respect you give them to not celebrate when you score, I think is fair play."
While Xhaka doesn't mind muted celebrations or apologies against ex employers, he is absolutely against half and half scarves - a trend that has become increasingly common in the sport we love.
He added: "Game's gone I think. If you support one team you don't need another team on your scarf. I'm not happy with that."
Similarly, Xhaka is also passionate when it comes to the tradition of losers removing their runners up medals in finals, stating: "For me you can't remove it. In the end the other team was better on this day and of course you are very disappointed but keep it on you and just show respect."
He isn't a hater of holes being cut in socks and respects players walking around opposition badges at stadiums.
And while plenty of football fans cannot stand new kick-off routines of balls being punted into the distance, Xhaka believes there is a purpose and points to Sunderland's success.
