Sunderland Drop Crucial Jobe Bellingham Injury Update as Key Stars Face Nervous Wait for Swansea Clash

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has provided a reassuring update on Jobe Bellingham’s absence during Tuesday night’s goalless draw against Norwich City. The young midfielder, a key figure throughout the season, was left out of the matchday squad as a precaution. Le Bris explained that the decision to rest Bellingham was not due to a serious injury, but rather a chance for the 19-year-old to recuperate. “He’s okay,” Le Bris assured. “It’s not a serious injury. Although he wants to play every game, today was an opportunity for him to refresh.”

Despite missing one of their most consistent performers, Sunderland managed to secure their place in the Championship play-offs with the draw at Carrow Road. Bellingham, who has made 36 appearances in the Championship this season, has been instrumental in Sunderland’s push for promotion. Le Bris emphasized the importance of squad management at this stage, saying, “We’re able to manage the squad to keep everyone in their best shape, and that was the decision here.”

With Sunderland already assured of a play-off spot, Le Bris is keen to keep his players sharp while also using the opportunity to rotate the squad and give others a chance to step up. “The good thing about our position is it gives us a chance to manage the squad, give different players a chance to show what they can do,” he said. “We’re in a really good place at this stage of the season, so it’s possible to manage the squad and keep everyone fresh – that’s a key objective for the remainder of the campaign.”

The head coach also stressed the importance of maintaining momentum heading into the final stretch, highlighting the team’s recent run of form with two wins and a draw since the international break. “The focus has been clear. We want to build strong momentum and not waste time,” Le Bris stated. “We are still building this spirit to be competitive until the end.”

Looking ahead, Le Bris hinted that more changes could be on the cards when Sunderland host Swansea City at the Stadium of Light this Saturday, as he continues to balance performance with player fitness in the lead-up to the play-offs.