Sunderland news: Phillips issues ‘massive’ Danny Batth claim after injury update
Sunderland defender Danny Batth will benefit from a week out of the firing line, according to Kevin Phillips.
The Stadium of Light legend, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, said the 31-year-old has “looked nervous” in his first few games for the club.
Batth was missing from the Black Cats squad which drew 1-1 at Wimbledon on Saturday.
As quoted by the Sunderland Echo (12 February), Alex Neil revealed the centre-half had “rolled his ankle”.
The new Sunderland boss went on to suggest the club would look into signing a free agent centre-half following the news.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of Batth’s start to life on Wearside, Phillips said: “There’s a massive difference between League One and the Championship.
“We have seen plenty of good players struggle to hit the ground running. The expectation at Sunderland is huge and some players find that hard.
“It was not the best start for Batth, with the own goal and the 6-0. He’s looked pretty nervous from what I’ve seen.
“He’s got experience though so I’m sure he’ll come through it.
“I think missing the game will benefit him. It will just take him out of the limelight a little bit.
“League One is a lot of hustle and bustle. I expect Batth to come round pretty soon. Hopefully Neil can reinstall some confidence in him.”
Speaking on Batth, Neil said: “Danny just rolled his ankle.”
“Thankfully we obviously had Bailey back to plug that gap for us.
“Listen, there’s a couple of areas where we’re short isn’t there, and we’re aware of that.”
In other news, one of Sunderland’s January signings has been tipped to dazzle after ex-teammate’s ‘massive’ dressing room claim.