'Freak of nature': Dan Neil hails Sunderland teammate following Rotherham win

Dan Neil has had his say on Sunderland teammate Jobe Bellingham.

Luke Phelps | Aug 22, 2023

'Freak of nature': Dan Neil hails Sunderland teammate following Rotherham win /

Jobe Bellingham got off the mark for Sunderland last weekend, scoring both goals in the Black Cats' 2-1 win over Rotherham United.

It was Sunderland's first win of the season, and a much-needed one too with the Black Cats losing their first two league games of the campaign.

Bellingham netted both goals in the 2-1 win, following his summer move from Championship rivals Birmingham City.

The 17-year-old younger brother of Real Madrid and England star Jude is held in high regards by those at the Stadium of Light, and by teammate Neil as well.

Speaking to Sunderland Echo, Neil said of Bellingham:

"He makes me look like a 17-year-old! He's an absolute freak of nature, physically. I have never seen a 17-year-old that size.

"Technically, he is a top, top, player as well. He has come here to play in front of 40,000 every week and that is something he is going to have to take on mentally, because we can all see how good a player he is technically, physically, and tactically.

"It is a different kettle of fish playing up here in front of these fans, but from what I've seen of his personality, he'll take it on just fine."

Neil is only 21 years old. It's easy to forget that he too is a young player still, given his quality and given how long he's been a key player for the club.

And in Neil, Bellingham has a great role model. Bellingham is one of several younger players in this Sunderland side and already, players like Neil are becoming the more senior names in the side.

There's certainly a bright future ahead for the club, but Tony Mowbray just needs to find a way of managing those younger players, whilst also getting results in the Championship.

Sunderland return to action away at Coventry City this weekend.

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