Jules Ahoka was only supposed to have a supporting role against Chelsea, but ended up producing one of Sunderland’s best performances of the season. The £8.6 million summer signing replaced the injured Granit Xhaka in the fourth minute and bossed the midfield in a memorable 1-0 victory.

Ahoka has yet to start a Premier League game for Regis Le Bris, despite impressing in the Europa League and Carabao Cup. However, the 20-year-old’s performance against Chelsea has given the Sunderland manager a major selection decision to make after the November international break.

Jules Ahoka makes himself undroppable after outstanding Chelsea display

Jules Ahoka arrived from Royal Antwerp for £8.6m in the summer and has gradually worked his way into Regis Le Bris’ plans. He has started all three of Sunderland’s Europa League matches and both Carabao Cup fixtures.

The Congolese midfielder has not been trusted to start in the Premier League, but that could change after his display against Chelsea. Ahoka recorded 12 defensive contributions, matching midfield partner Noah Sadiki and finishing just behind Moises Caicedo’s game-high 13.

Ahoka’s total included four tackles, while he also won six of his eight ground duels. With the ball, the former Antwerp player completed two successful dribbles, with only Estevao Willian (three) managing more, according to FotMob.

Sunderland have now won their first Premier League game since beating Fulham in August, with Enzo Le Fee scoring the only goal after Brian Brobbey won a penalty following a foul by Levi Colwill. The Black Cats were perhaps fortunate not to concede a spot-kick themselves after Luke O’Nien’s challenge on Cole Palmer, but were deserved winners after dominating large periods.

The result lifts Sunderland off the bottom of the table and into 19th, level on eight points with Manchester United and ahead of Crystal Palace. Granit Xhaka’s injury could also open the door for Ahoka to retain his place, especially given the Switzerland international has not been at his best this season.

It might seem premature to suggest the summer signing should become a regular starter, but he has certainly made a compelling case. Le Bris would be taking a risk by dropping Ahoka after such an outstanding performance.