Alious‘Incredible’ Sunderland starlet shines on loan at South Shields as contract call approaches
Sunderland academy defender Ollie Bainbridge is drawing widespread praise for his eye-catching performances during a loan spell at National League North leaders South Shields, with his future at the Stadium of Light now under scrutiny.
The 20-year-old full-back, who has yet to make his senior debut despite being included in five Premier League matchday squads last season, has already enjoyed a valuable loan stint with Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership. He switched to South Shields this summer, where he will remain until January—by which point he will enter the final six months of his Sunderland deal.
His displays have quickly turned heads. Bainbridge has featured prominently in the Mariners’ last four matches, helping them stay top of the table while also edging them closer to the FA Cup first round proper. That form has forced Sunderland to take note, with his performances potentially influencing their decision on whether to extend his contract.
South Shields boss Ian Watson has been one of his biggest admirers, describing the youngster as a natural fit for his side. Speaking after their FA Cup win over Chorley, Watson said:
> “Ollie is a talent. I watched him in a Sunderland Under-21s game against Burnley and within five minutes I knew we needed to bring him in. We’ve got strong full-backs here but I was concerned about overusing them. He’s slotted straight in, he does everything perfectly, and he’s desperate to improve. His desire and attitude have been incredible.”
Bainbridge himself has admitted the move has been the ideal opportunity, praising South Shields for mirroring Sunderland’s progressive, possession-based style of play.
> “Everyone thinks non-league is just about long balls,” he told *The Sunderland Echo*. “But here it’s very similar to what I’ve been used to at Sunderland. It’s been the perfect loan for me—it’s helped me settle in straight away.”
With Sunderland’s Premier League return creating increased competition for places, Bainbridge’s loan spell could prove decisive in shaping his long-term future. The Black Cats must soon decide whether to reward his impressive progress with a new deal or risk losing one of their most highly regarded academy prospects.
Alious
