Mike Dodds explains his surprise Sunderland selection decisions and drops early QPR hint
Mike Dodds has been discussing Sunderland’s 4-2 defeat to Southampton
Adil Aouachiche was unlucky not to start against Southampton, according to Mike Dodds, but he was hesitant to bench Chris Rigg following his strong showing against Leicester City.
After making an impression off the bench against the Foxes, Aouchiche was almost universally expected to start for Sunderland. He contributed to their second-half comeback, which saw them momentarily overcome a two-goal deficit in the 4-2 loss to Southampton.
The interim head coach also sprung a surprise by recalling Mason Burstow to the starting XI, with Nazariy Rusyn again used as a second-half substitute. Dodds said Aouchiche in particular was unlucky not to start but said it ultimately was a decision between the French midfielder and Rigg, who had been so impressive on his full Championship debut.
“They were unlucky not to start, Adil definitely,” Dodds said.
“I just felt Riggy’s performance in midweek was so good he deserved another opportunity. It was a decision, do I take Riggy out and give him a breather or keep him in? I thought he deserved to stay in and that was the ultimate decision.
“I thought Naz came on and his energy and enthusiasm added to what we were trying to do,” he added.
“Adil and Naz have forced their way forward in terms of next weekend, we’ve got to do our preparation and diligence for QPR but by coming on and playing as they did, they give themselves every chance.”
Dodds does not anticipate seeing any of his injured players return for the visit from QPR. Dan Ballard will undergo testing next week following his hamstring injury sustained in the loss at St Mary’s.
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