Sunderland triumphed against Sheffield United to secure a spot in next season’s Premier League with a dramatic Championship play-off final clash at Wembley. From the side who waited until the final second of extra time to beat Coventry City in the semi-final, there’s a feeling of it being ‘written in the stars’, as they return to the Premier League for the first time since 2017.
It looked like it was going to be a simple afternoon’s work for their opponents, given Tyrese Campbell netted in the first half to put United one goal to the good. Harrison Burrows thought he’d added a second for the South Yorkshire outfit before the break, but a VAR check revealed an offside infringement, meaning the score remained 1-0 heading into half-time.
The second United goal that would’ve inevitably secured promotion never arrived, with Sunderland the side looking more likely to score. Patrick Roberts’ introduction brought the North East side back to life, with the winger playing the pass that led to Eliezer Mayenda’s equaliser midway through the second half.
It was a goal that ignited Sunderland, and from that point on, they were the only side that looked like winning. Sunderland’s destiny was confirmed when substitute Tom Watson curled home the winning goal in added time. Following Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League, Express Sport have detailed five Black Cats stars to watch out for next season.
Enzo Le Fee
Dubbed one of the ‘best-ever Championship signings’ when he arrived from Roma on an initial loan in January, the expectation is that Sunderland, following their return to the big time, will secure the permanent signing of Enzo Le Fee. A dazzling attacker, with incredible technical ability, the Frenchman will certainly be one to watch next season.
Chris Rigg
It’s been a remarkable season for Chris Rigg, who at just 17 years old has featured 47 times across all competitions for the Black Cats. Already a youth international for England, Rigg is being tipped to enjoy a stellar career in the game and given he doesn’t turn 18 until June, it’s safe to say the teenage sensation has his best years ahead of him.
Anthony Patterson
The next impressive young goalkeeper to have caught the eye at Sunderland, Anthony Patterson is looking to follow in the footsteps of England No.1 Jordan Pickford and establish a career in the top flight. That’s if they can keep hold of him, given Premier League teams have reportedly been keeping tabs on the 25-year-old.
Jobe Bellingham
Eliezer Mayenda
