Papy Djilobodji became David Moyes’ first signing as Sunderland manager on Friday when he sealed his move from Chelsea.
To mark the transfer, safc.com has compiled list of 10 facts to get to know the defender…
- Born December 1, 1988, Djilobodji is a Senegalese footballer who was raised in Kaolack.
- Djilobodji began his career in 2007 at Senegalese side ASC Saloum before moving to French club US Senart-Moissy two-years later.
- After leaving Senart-Moissy in 2010, he made 171 appearances for Ligue 1 outfit FC Nantes, scoring nine times.
- A move to England followed ahead of the 2015-16 Premier League season as Chelsea secured his services.
- The 27-year-old was then loaned to German side Werder Bremen in the second half of last season and made 14 appearances, scoring once.
- While at Bremen, Djiolobodji played an integral part in helping them secure their Bundesliga safety, as his one and only goal came as an 88th minute winner on the final day of the season to secure their survival.
- With international recognition as well, Djilobodji has been capped 13 times by Senegal and also appeared at the 2015 African Cup of Nations.
- A centre-back by trade, Djilobodji can also play as a defensive midfielder.
- At 193cms tall, the 27-year-old is Sunderland’s joint-second tallest player with Younes Kaboul. The pair stand just below Jan Kirchhoff who is 195cms tall.
- Djilobodji is a powerful defender and while he is predominately a left-footed player, he is accomplished using his right as well.
