Baldwin’s a symbol of Cats rebuild

JACK Ross sees summer signing Jack Baldwin as a symbol of how he has changed Sunderland for the better.

The former Hartlepool United defender sat out the opening game of the season as he came to terms with what he described as a step up, despite moving from one leading League One side to another.

But with the exception of the Football League Trophy game at home to Stoke City, the 25-year-old centre-back has played every minute since, and has been a key part of the Black Cats’ unbeaten start to the League One campaign.

It is not just his on-field qualities, but his character which has impressed Ross.

“I left him out of the first game because he’d taken time to adapt,” said the Scot.

“He’s probably a really good reflection of what we’re trying to do at the club in terms of the types we’re trying to bring in because I think he’s a good player who can get better.

“At his age I think he can still grow and improve and reach a level beyond the level he’s playing at just now.”

Baldwin has never played higher than League One football, where he also appeared for Peterborough United, but his assured performances this season suggest he is capable of moving up to the Championship if his team achieves this season’s overarching goal.

He has looked hungry in the tackle and comfortable on the ball, and unfazed by the different styles of play which are a characteristic of the third tier.

Previous club Peterborough are top of League One, having dropped just two points in their opening seven matches. Having said that, Baldwin was struck by the step up in scale when he swapped London Road for the Stadium of Light.

Ross has been impressed with his attitude, but thinks it is typical of the 12 new players he has brought to the club this season.

“He can physically get stronger but his willingness and his desire to want to do well here and learn and get better, how humble he is about it and how much he appreciates the opportunity of playing in this stadium, how he works every day on the training ground is refreshing,” he said.

“There’s not just him, there’s a lot like that now. He’s probably the one that’s symbolic of that because of how he performs on the pitch.”