While Bellingham may lack the striker instincts of Ross Stewart, he has proven to be a pleasant surprise in the number 9 position for Sunderland.
Sunderland striker woes as Nazariy Rusyn rumours emerge
As the summer transfer window approaches, Sunderland will once more be in search of new strikers.
Kristjaan Speakman understands that they cannot afford to overlook the glaring requirement for a prolific striker, instead of focusing on strengthening positions where the team already has depth and quality.
The urgency for a striker has intensified, particularly with the emergence of recent online rumors concerning Rusyn.
Speculative reports suggest that Rusyn may desire to depart Sunderland this summer after a challenging first season in England.
Burstow is expected to return to his parent club Chelsea, leaving Hemir as the sole recognized first-team striker.
However, Hemir could potentially attract interest during the summer transfer window.
Jobe Bellingham form sends stark warning to Luis Hemir
Observing Bellingham stepping into the number 9 role and significantly influencing the club’s fortunes will undoubtedly have made a strong impression on Hemir.
A major criticism of Hemir has been his perceived lack of work rate. In a fast-paced and dynamic Sunderland team, the lone striker is expected to contribute by putting in the hard yards, working into the channels, and pressuring the defensive line. Unfortunately, Hemir has fallen short in this aspect, whereas Bellingham not only fulfills these duties but also adds quality in the final third.
With only three games remaining in the season, Hemir’s future involvement remains uncertain. Since his last start against QPR, the 20-year-old has seen limited playing time, appearing for only a few minutes in two substitute appearances.
At this point, Hemir’s best course of action is to demonstrate to Mike Dodds and the potential next Sunderland manager during training sessions that he is committed to putting in the necessary effort and possesses the fitness required for Championship football.
Currently, Bellingham, primarily an attacking midfielder, has emerged as Sunderland’s most effective striker, a role that ideally should belong to Hemir.
If this situation persists, Hemir could find himself departing Wearside sooner rather than later.