Martin Gray: Sunderland ace Jobe Bellingham ‘looks fitter and more athletic’
Sunderland maestro Jobe Bellingham has been praised by former Black Cats player Martin Gray.
The 19-year-old has been an influential member of Regis Le Bris’ squad and is a huge reason as to why the Black Cats find themselves top of the Championship.
Jobe was often utlised as Sunderland’s centre-forward last season however a newly found midfield role has seen the brother of Jude Bellingham excel.
The youngster has received plaudits from everyone involved in football but most recently from Gray, in an interview published in The Sun print edition (18 October, Pg 53)
He said: “I think he looks a better player this season. He looks fitter and more athletic.
“I watched him a lot last season and I think he’s now playing in a position where he comes from deep rather than receiving the ball high up the pitch.
It’s just great to see young boys like him holding their own in the Championship as there are not many doing that.”
Is Jobe Bellingham Sunderland’s least replaceable player?
Quite frankly, yes. If Sunderland were to lose Jobe, it would be a remarkably challenging task to replace him.
He boasts several key attributes that can’t be trained, his ability to keep the ball under pressure and most importantly his incredible level of matureness at such a young age.
The last time a midfielder of his ilk demonstrated such talent at a young age was when his brother, Jude, burst onto the scene at Birmingham.
That arguably makes life even more challenging for Jobe, constantly being compared to his brother who is undoubtedly one of the best in the world currently however, he has taken that pressure in his stride this season.
Whilst January interest is likely, Sunderland need to do everything in their power to keep Jobe at the club, especially if promotion ambitions are to be maintained.
In other Sunderland news, Sunderland’s most recent recruit Aaron Connolly has hit the ground running with three goals in two Under-21s appearances as he edges closer to match fitness.
For more Sunderland news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.