Sunderland were lucky to come away with a 1-1 draw on Tuesday night as Regis Le Bris’ side struggled to create many clear-cut chances.
The Blacks Cats probably should have had a penalty but they simply must improve in the final third if they want to achieve promotion to the Premier League.
One player in particular who could have done more was Jobe Bellingham, who put in a 6/10 performance against Bristol City.
Here’s what one expert thinks Bellingham must change about his game to become more effective.
- READ MORE: Regis Le Bris says Sunderland star is ‘an example’ for his teammates after Bristol City clash
What Championship expert wants Jobe Bellingham to change
Sky Sports commentator and WhatTheEFL?! podcast co-host Adrian Clarke had one main criticism of Bellingham during Tuesday’s game.
“He probably takes too many touches,” he explained after Bellingham came under pressure from several Bristol City players after turning down a simple pass.
“He’s a hard man to knock off the ball,” Clarke then acknowledged as the 19-year-old somehow managed to retain possession.
Of course, Bellingham has the ability to shrug off defenders and go past others but that does not necessarily mean that he should do that every time.
Especially when Sunderland are up against a low block, it would make more sense to play with urgency rather than needlessly keeping the ball at his feet.
“I think he can move the ball quicker in general,” Clarke added as Bellingham did the same thing on another occasion.
Jobe Bellingham can provide more goals for Sunderland
There can be no doubts about Bellingham’s ability. He is already one of the top midfielders in the Championship at just 19 years of age.
But the youngster will want to take his game to the next level in years to come and one way he can do that is to provide more goals.
The midfielder scored seven times in the league last season, though he only has two goals in 17 games this campaign.
Bellingham should be looking to reach double digits every season in the second tier, even from a deeper position.