Journalist Michael Graham has criticised Sunderland fans for one ‘weird’ thing they have done this season.
Sunderland face stiff competition to keep hold of Jobe Bellingham, one year on from his arrival from Birmingham City.
The midfielder scored seven times in the Championship last season after regularly being played out of position as a forward.
Jobe’s debut campaign on Wearside has attracted interest from the Premier League, with Brentford and Crystal Palace currently exploring a potential deal for the 18-year-old.
However, reports have claimed that Sunderland are ‘determined’ to keep hold of Jobe and are only willing to sell him for more than £20 million.
The price tag could put off potential suitors and could keep him at the Stadium of Light, though many fans have encouraged an exit.
Sunderland fans are ‘weird’ for Jobe Bellingham treatment
The teenager came under a lot of criticism from supporters last term, and journalist Michael Graham has now condemned the ‘weird’ thing they have been doing.
Responding to Sunderland’s stance on Jobe, Graham wrote on X: “Good. Find it a bit weird how many #SAFC fans don’t realise how good Jobe can be. The season he’s just put in, for an 18-year-old, has been pretty remarkable.”
Jobe Bellingham definitely went downhill after a solid start at Sunderland, with the only performance that particularly stood out being his display against Cardiff in March.
Does Jobe deserve the criticism?
The youngster was dispossessed the most times in the squad (62) and also had the second-most unsuccessful touches (89).
Jobe’s performances deserve some criticism, but to think he can’t flourish into a hugely talented player is very naive.
He is still only 18 years old and while he is never going to be at Jude’s level, he could well become a bigger player than Sunderland will ever be able to attract again.
Keeping him on Wearside seems like the smartest idea, and who knows how much money they could cash in next summer instead.