Anichebe reveals he played against Bournemouth with cracked rib

Sunderland’s Victor Anichebe, has revealed he played with a cracked rib, as they beat Bournemouth 2-1 on Saturday – their first win of the season.

The Nigeria striker made his first start for the Black Cats and scored the equalizer, before winning the penalty that Jermaine Defoe converted.

At full time, he threw his shirt to the club’s supporters, revealing a heavy strapping across his midriff.

“In the first half I cracked my rib, I couldn’t move properly,” he told Sky Sports.

Anichebe, who signed for Sunderland as a free agent in the summer, dedicated the three points to manager David Moyes.

“We did this for the manager, over he last few weeks we have not done him justice,” he said.

“For all the work the manager has done, this one was for him. He is the one who has been getting the blame, even though we are the ones on the pitch.

“You could see by the reaction at the final whistle. We have wanted this result for so long. It was a must-win game, even when we were down to 10 men, we didn’ t sulk we grinded it out.”

Moyes, who was banned for the match, also praised the 28-year-old’s performance in the game.

“I’ve always thought Victor’s had a great ability — a lot more than most people give him credit for,” he said.

“He is strong, quick, good in the air.”