Ross Stewart: Sunderland could have ‘major concern’ after confirmed news – Phillips
Kevin Phillips fears Sunderland are “down to the bare bones” in the striking after Jermain Defoe announced his retirement.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend said it would be “a major concern” if Ross Stewart, 25, got injured between now and the end of the season.
On 24 March, Defoe announced his retirement from football with immediate effect.
The Black Cats re-signed the 39-year-old on a deal until the end of the season on 1 February.
However, after seven appearances in League One he decided to hang up his boots.
The decision leaves Sunderland boss Alex Neil with just Ross Stewart and Nathan Broadhead as senior recognised strikers.
Phillips is worried about the club’s squad depth.
“They are down to the bare bones now,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs. “There is no two ways around it. It is there for everyone to see.
“Ross Stewart has been an incredible player for Sunderland this season. Just like Charlie Wyke was last season, they have relied heavily on him. The goalscoring charts show that.
“It would be a major concern if he was to get injured. The good thing is, he is a very durable player who does not miss many minutes of football.
“The sensible route from Alex Neil would be to manage his game time. Wrap him up in cotton wool. Sit him out of sessions if need be. Keep him ready for the matches. Ross has done exceptionally well this season.”
In other news, Kieran Maguire has tipped an influx of French signings at Sunderland after ‘huge’ boardroom news.