Isidor regret amid suspension fear for Sunderland v Sheffield United – Exclusive
Wilson Isidor ran his luck as Sunderland secured their spot in the play-off final with a 3-2 aggregate win over Coventry City.
Sunderland are 90 minutes away from making a return to the Premier League, having spent nine years outside of the top flight, though they will have to overcome Sheffield United at Wembley to achieve that.
Dan Ballard, just as he was in the first leg at the CBS Arena, proved to be the difference with his last-second header, sending his side to Wembley while also sending the Stadium of Light into delirium.
However, the Black Cats may find themselves fortunate to have Isidor available after what happened in the latter stages of the clash.
Sunderland fortunate to avoid Isidor ban ahead of Wembley trip
Isidor has been crucial for Sunderland this season, and the likelihood is that he will be just as important when the Black Cats make the trip to the capital on 24 May.
However, having picked up a yellow card against Coventry for simulation, the Frenchman was very lucky to avoid a second yellow after Ballard equalised in the game.
Having been substituted, Isidor ran onto the pitch to celebrate the goal, mocking Coventry keeper Ben Wilson in the process, and as explained by Keith Hackett, he should have seen a second yellow by the laws of the game.
| Team | Position | Goal Difference | Points |
| Sheffield United | 3 | 27 | 90 |
| Sunderland | 4 | 14 | 76 |
Speaking to Mackem News, the former PGMOL official said: “I guess in the euphoria of winning and reaching a Wembley play-off final against Sheffield United, a player guilty of over celebrating is perhaps understandable, but in the way that it was done, regrettable.
“Frankly, I don’t think any referee would in this instance want to show a second yellow, albeit justifiable in law. For it to be acted upon, the referee or his colleagues have to see it to act.
“The match officials will no doubt at the final whistle want to leave the field of play quickly to avoid any confrontation that might arise.”
Sunderland can achieve special Premier League return
No one would expect it to happen, but Sunderland will have the backing of thousands when they face the Blades at Wembley.
It will be a huge occasion, and a huge chance for the Mackems to return to where they belong.
Of course, they will need to be at their best, but as showcased throughout the campaign, they can beat anyone when on their game, and they need to ensure that they are in nine days.