Alious**Sunderland’s Promotion Hopes Under Threat as Jobe Bellingham’s Absence Exposes Major Weakness**
Sunderland’s struggles without Jobe Bellingham have become a growing concern, with the team failing to secure a single Championship victory in his absence. The Black Cats have drawn all four league matches without the young midfielder, highlighting just how crucial he is to their promotion push.
### **Sunderland’s Winless Streak Without Bellingham**
The latest reminder of Bellingham’s importance came in Sunderland’s 2-2 draw with Watford at the Stadium of Light. While the result wasn’t disastrous, the overall performance lacked the spark that Regis Le Bris’ side typically displays. Salis Abdul Samed stepped in to replace the injured Bellingham, but his impact was limited, reinforcing the midfielder’s irreplaceable role in the squad.
This trend isn’t new. In November, Sunderland were in fine form, winning four out of six games before heading into a three-match stretch against Preston North End, Coventry City, and Millwall. With Bellingham suspended for all three fixtures, the team failed to win a single one, surrendering leads against both Coventry and Millwall.
Against Watford, the pattern repeated itself. Luke O’Nien opened the scoring, but the Black Cats couldn’t capitalize, allowing their opponents to fight back. While Sunderland remain unbeaten at home, they lost ground in the promotion race, especially with rivals Sheffield United and Leeds United securing wins.
### **Bellingham’s Future Hinges on Promotion**
Adding to Sunderland’s worries is the increasing interest in Bellingham from elite clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Borussia Dortmund. If the Black Cats fail to secure Premier League football, it seems inevitable that the 19-year-old will move on to bigger opportunities.
Reports suggest Sunderland would struggle to hold onto Bellingham should they remain in the Championship, with top clubs ready to pounce. The midfielder has been in outstanding form, contributing to seven goals this season and ranking in the top percentile for ground duels won. His composure and physicality make him a key component of Sunderland’s system—one they’ve been unable to replicate in his absence.
Samed, who replaced Bellingham against Watford, was unable to fill the void, exposing the challenge Sunderland would face in replacing him permanently. While the club will eventually need to move forward without their young star, recent performances have shown how difficult that transition will be.
### **A Crucial Period Ahead**
With the promotion race heating up, Sunderland can’t afford to continue their struggles without Bellingham. His presence dictates the team’s success, and his absence has provided a stark warning of what life could look like without him. If Sunderland can’t secure a Premier League return, they may not just lose their best player—they could see their entire promotion project unravel.
Alious
