Sunderland set to benefit from a refreshed Bellingham - Dodds
Mike Dodds says Jobe Bellingham is refreshed after a well-earned rest over the international period.
Bellingham has had an intense schedule since arriving from Birmingham City last summer, which has been added to by his youth international commitment. Bellingham did not go away with the age groups this time around, however, with Sunderland taking the decision to ease his workload ahead of the Easter fixtures and the Championship run in.
The Black Cats also significantly reduced his training load over the break, and Dodds believes it was the right decision for all parties in the long run.
"We just felt as a football club... he's played 30-odd games," Dodds explained.
"We're very respectful to the international teams, but our injury list at the moment isn't the best and for someone at 18, who has played the amount of games he has at the level he has, we felt it was more sensible for him to have a breather.
"He only came in for a couple of days over the two weeks, we gave him an extended period off to rest and recover which I think is sensible from both ours and
England's perspective. He's been back in this week, he looks refreshed and I think both parties have done the right thing by him."
Meanwhile, Jay Matete has suffered a fresh injury blow as he prepares to undergo surgery.
Matete has struggled for regular game time since suffering an injury during the club's pre-season tour of the US last summer, and joined Oxford United on deadline day in a bid to build his match fitness. The 23-year-old made six appearances for the League One promotion hopefuls but has now returned to Wearside.
Kristjaan Speakman says it is the right move to help him find his best form and fitness in the long run, adding that he is hopeful that Matete will be able to play a part in preseason as a result.
"Jay has had to navigate a really challenging season and after working hard to return, this news comes as a disappointing blow," Speakman said. "After assessing his injury, we had an honest conversation and agreed that immediate surgery provides the best long-term outlook for his progression.”