MIKE Dodds says he'll be guided by what he sees on the training ground with his Sunderland team selections in the final weeks of the season.

And although he understands questions about why those who are unlikely to still be at Sunderland next season should be involved in the remaining five games, he says he will continue to pick his team on merit.

Dodds raised eyebrows on Saturday when he left Abdoullah Ba out of the squad for the game against Bristol City but Mason Burstow, whose loan deal from Chelsea expires at the end of the season, and Bradley Dack, who is likely to leave when his contract runs out this summer, were both named on the bench.

Dodds does admit he has to have Sunderland's long-term thinking in mind with his selection but says inclusion has to be earned and has reiterated his stance on "experimenting" in the coming weeks.

"I completely see that narrative," said Dodds when asked whether it makes sense to be including players in his matchday squads when they look likely to leave in the summer.

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But he added: "Our long term vision is to get to the Premier League. If we decide the next four weeks is going to be an experiment you start to erode away some of the foundations you've put in place for almost two seasons.

"I understand that narrative and I'm on board but at the same time I do feel this is a long term project in terms of getting back to where we want to be and when you start deviating and moving away from the training ground culture and the things you want everyday here.

"I won't say we won't experiment but it has to be carefully thought out. I'm not saying this or that player won't get an opportunity but they have to be earned. This is Sunderland Football Club."

One player who Dodds has admitted could get a chance before the season is out is Tommy Watson, and the youngster continued his fine form for the Under-21s with a goal in the 2-1 win over Wolves on Monday.

Midfielder Marshall Burke, 18, came off the bench to score a winner for the Black Cats.

Graeme Murty's side are next in action when they host Middlesbrough next Monday night.