The 18-year-old converted midfielder netted his eighth goal of the season in the Welsh capital.
By Phil Blanche, PA.

March 29, 2024, at 6:15 PM GMT.

Interim manager Mike Dodds praised Jobe Bellingham’s effect as a centre-forward after Sunderland defeated Cardiff 2-0, their first victory since February 10.

Bellingham, the 18-year-old younger brother of England and Real Madrid player Jude, won an early penalty and scored his eighth goal of the season in an overall mature effort.

“We should be excited about his performance, something we can build on moving forward,” said Dodds, who disclosed that he has spoken with Bellingham about his ideal position after previously playing him in midfield.

“He has scored a goal and performed well throughout the game. He’s a coach’s dream; if I told him to go play in goal, he’d do it right away.

“What he possesses that many number nines don’t in this league is incredible footwork – he’s a centre-midfielder who plays up front.

“He offered us a foundation to play on, but keep in mind that he is a second-year scholar competing in the Championship.

“He’s 18, and I know he bears the weight of his sibling, which I believe is sometimes unjust.

“But if you put that to one side, you’ve just seen a second-year scholar who has been exceptional and should be playing youth-team football.”

On February 19, Dodds replaced the ousted Michael Beale, and Sunderland had lost six and drew one of their previous seven games, dropping down the Sky Bet Championship standings.

He stated, “I think that was a great professional performance, and I’ve tried to keep very balanced in this position while looking at performances.

“I’m more thrilled for the group and the fans because the outcome makes things feel a little lighter, but I’m still balanced.

“The (first) goal was a huge psychological factor in us just relaxing, after that we were excellent and cut through them really well.”

Cardiff’s slender play-off aspirations were dashed with a second consecutive defeat, after losing 2-0 to Welsh rivals Swansea before to the international break.

Erol Bulut’s one-year contract expires at the conclusion of the season, and the Bluebirds boss admitted that uncertainty over his future might have an influence on performances.

Bulut stated, “It could be (affecting players).” I have no difficulties. I appreciate the board’s decision not to make a fresh offer.

 

“I’m going to focus on my job until the end of the season. We haven’t communicated about it till now, so we’ll see.

Bulut commented on the dismal performance, saying, “During the international break, the players trained really well, so I was expecting a much better game.”

“Seeing that performance stings. To be honest, this was one of the worst games we’ve played out of 39 this season.”