Jobe Bellingham importance showcased by shocking Sunderland statistic
Sunderland were held to a 0-0 draw away to Norwich on Tuesday night, with Jobe Bellingham absent.
Despite what was a rather underwhelming performance, Sunderland sealed a playoff spot with the point accumulated at Carrow Road.
Jobe was a notable omission from the squad, having picked up a minor knock ahead of the game.
However, his absence once again highlighted the biggest worry that Sunderland have ahead of the final five games of the season.
Sunderland have not won a game without Jobe
Jobe has been nothing short of remarkable for Sunderland this season, and it’s no surprise to see so many high-profile clubs linked with a summer move for him.
However, when he has not featured, Sunderland have looked lost, and quite remarkably, they have not won when he has not played.
The 19-year-old has missed five league encounters for Sunderland this season, with the Black Cats failing to win any of them, while also failing to perform in those fixtures.
| Sunderland | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Jobe | 36 | 4 | 3 |
His ability to retain possession of the ball and drive up the pitch with pace and power has been crucial to Sunderland’s attempt this season, and quite frankly, they do not have any other player in the squad capable of replicating the attribute that he showcases on a weekly basis.
Jobe could return to the lineup for their clash with Swansea City this weekend, but the record without him showcases just how damaging it would be if he were to pick up an injury that kept him out for a sustained period of time.
Regis Le Bris must be careful with Jobe
With nothing left to play for until the playoffs, Regis Le Bris could either rest Jobe and potentially sacrifice the momentum that could be key to success, or risk his fitness in an attempt to gain that momentum to take into the playoffs.
Either way, the Frenchman will be taking a risk, and it’s a position that not many envy him for being in.