Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray could be facing a selection dilemma in regards to Jobe Bellingham this Saturday v Birmingham City.
Jobe Bellingham has been a regular this season for Sunderland but at 19 years old, the consensus is it could be smart to give him some rest.
Too often have talented prospects seen too much playing time early on lead to a career plagued with injuries; think Jack Wilshire and Wayne Rooney.
Jobe therefore could see his first game against his boyhood club played from the bench, as Mowbray has emphasised the importance of resting him previously.
Mowbray on resting Jobe
According to the Sunderland Echo, Mowbray has been outspoke recently on the need for Jobe to rest.
Prior to last Saturday’s game against Swansea, Mowbray admitted his concerns: “The last international break was real touch and go as to whether he went,
“England wanted him to go and he ended up playing two-and-a-half games. We were trying to rest him after that but because of injuries he had just to keep rolling on.”
He then continued to admit Jobe will be rested at some point.
“At some stage he needs to be given extra time off and he’ll get that next week, as well,” added Mowbray as he discussed the 19-year-old’s game-time.
“He’s an integral part of this team but we do have to try and factor in some time where he can have a day off his feet.”
Jobe will however be hoping this isn’t where he is rested, given he will want to show Birmingham what they’re missing.
Probably not the right time to rest him
Jobe no doubt needs to see some rest as we don’t want him to burn out, but it would be harsh for this game to be where it happens.
Against his former side, Jobe will be desperate to impress and deserves the chance to do so.
With the international break after this weekend, Sunderland should try to impose some restrictions on the playing time of their star.