Sunderland manager Jack Ross has admitted that the club are still in the process of figuring out what Bali Mumba's best position is.

The 17-year-old, who is a product of the Black Cats' youth academy, made his first-team debut on the final day of the 2017/18 season against Wolverhampton Wanderers and has since gone on to operate in a number of different positions for the club at various levels.

Whilst predominately a central midfielder, Mumba also lined up in more of a defensive role for Sunderland during the previous campaign.

However, during his time with the Black Cats' Under-23 side, the teenager has played on the left-hand side of midfield as well as at right-back.

Having recently completed 90 minutes for England's Under-19s in the latter of the aforementioned positions, Mumba has created somewhat of a conundrum for Ross.

Speaking to the Sunderland Echo about the Black Cats man, the 43-year-old said: "I'm not sure [what his best position is] at the moment.

"I think it's a challenge for Elliot [Dickman] and Michael [Proctor] because we've had conversations about making sure we identify that and making him the best he can possibly be in that area.

"I know they've been pleased with how he's performed at full-back recently and he played there earlier in his academy career.

"There's a trust in them at the moment because they see him a lot more than I do and they're working a lot closer with him but my opinion of his as a young footballer has never changed.

"Watching him again in training last week he's got brilliant attributes and I like him.

"He's an asset to the football club and he'll go on to have a good career as long as he keeps doing what he's doing because his desire is really good."

Although Mumba has yet to make an appearance for Sunderland this season, he could feature for the club in their upcoming EFL Trophy clashes with Grimsby Twon and Leicester City Under-21s.

The Verdict

Unquestionably one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from Sunderland's academy in recent years, Mumba seemingly has a very bright future ahead of him at the Stadium of Light.

However, If he continues to switch roles it could have a serious impact on his development as a player.

Therefore, in order for Mumba to have the best chance of fulfilling his potential it is paramount that Ross finds out what his best position is over the coming months.