Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris believes playing versatile midfielder, Jobe Bellingham, as a number eight is a good place to start.

The Black Cats youngster played a number of positions for the Wearsiders last season, leading to a debate over his best position.

Jobe appeared to be the answer to Sunderland's goal scoring woes, leading the line under Mike Dodds last term, but found himself back in the midfield engine room as the season wore on. Older brother Jude Bellingham referred to Jobe as a ‘thoroughbred striker’ which raised further questions about his best position.

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At his first press conference in charge of the Black Cats, Le Bris wasted no time in claiming he knew Jobe's best position in his system but would wait until he'd had conversations with the 18-year-old. Now, a few weeks on, Sunderland's friendlies have given an insight into what the future holds.

"I think it's a good idea to start, and then we'll see," Le Bris said. "He has the great potential to press because he is physical and strong and energetic. That part of the game he can be very strong.

"Then from this position as a number eight on the left he can create a relationship with Jack, for example, or Dennis.

"Of course they need experience together to improve that triangle but I think that it could be a good position for him."

With seven goals and one assist in 45 Championship appearances last season, Jobe has caught the eye of a number of Premier League clubs this summer, Crystal Palace to name one. 

However, the highly rated youngster is expected to stay at the club this summer, having committed himself to another year in red and white.