'I was hopeful after the play-off final that Bellingham would stay'

Former Sunderland player Darren Williams has admitted he was hopeful that Jobe Bellingham would stay at the club after the play-off final.

Bellingham has joined Borussia Dortmund for an initial fee of £27m, and will be involved in the Club World Cup squad for his new side.

Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle, Williams said that while he wishes Bellingham all the best in Germany, it would have been good to see him play in the Premier League.

He said: "We brought him in at a low cost and two years later we're making a good amount on him - [but] I'd have love to see him play for us in the Premier League and test himself.

"I've got no qualms - he's been brilliant. He's achieved something with Sunderland. I was hopeful after the final that he would stay, and then the news came about interest from Germany.

"I wish him all the best. It's fantastic money. The club has made good money from the last four players sold."

Listen to the full clip on BBC Sounds here