Jobe Bellingham issues clear Sunderland AFC fan message after Coventry win | OneFootball

Jobe Bellingham has sounded a battle cry to the Black Cats' supporters following their play-off triumph

Jobe Bellingham has spoken out following Sunderland’s vital 2-1 play-off victory away at Coventry City last night.

The Black Cats led the game through Wilson Isidor before Jack Rudoni instantly drew the tie level in the second-half, only for Eliezer Mayenda to capitalise on Milan van Ewijk's error two minutes from time and fire home the winner.

Sunderland now have a lead to defend at the Stadium of Light, as they hope to reach the play-off final and stake their claim for returning to the top-flight.

Bellingham enjoyed a particularly impressive display, confident and influential from the off, producing a massive tackle in the dying embers of the game to maintain his side’s advantage.

Now, he has issued a message to the Black Cats’ supporters ahead of the return leg next week.

“We’ll need you” – Bellingham issues battle cry to the Sunderland faithful

The 19-year-old has grown into the Sunderland side during his second season in the North East, and has become one of the Black Cats’ most dependable operators.

Following his commendable display, Bellingham posted a short but meaningful message to his Instagram account.

“Keep the faith. Fantastic collective performance… on Tuesday we’ll need you once again.”

Wembley beckons for the Black Cats

Although the tie is far from over, taking a lead home from your competitors' ground will automatically hand Sunderland a strong mental advantage heading into the second leg, accompanied by a packed-out Stadium of Light roaring the home side on incandescently.

The Black Cats came into the game after five straight defeats but put their poor form behind them to steal a march on the Sky Blues.

Following the superb display, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris was delighted by his side when speaking to the Sunderland Echo.

"You saw how important it was today, the energy and the commitment was there," stated Le Bris. "You need this in play-off football.

"We [have been] talking a lot about complacency, consistency, discipline, because young players before making mistakes can just be driven by the dynamic of the game, the score. Now the game is finished so I was really impressed again today.

"I was impressed by the level of maturity today. It was tough, it wasn't an easy game but they stayed connected and grounded in out principles. This was the main principle of our success today."

The second leg will be played on Tuesday 13th May, as Sunderland look to hang on to their lead and secure a place in the play-off final, giving them their first opportunity to progress back to the Premier League since their relegation in 2017.