Sunderland already told they’ll struggle next season after what’s happened – Exclusive
Sunderland could be set for a frustrating campaign next season as the play-off final looms.
The Black Cats are awaiting a huge clash against Sheffield United at Wembley as both sides set their sights on the Premier League.
In the richest game in football, the spoils of promotion can’t be shared as the Blades look to return to the top tier at the first time of asking.
It will certainly be an interesting day for the Mackems and Regis Le Bris, with a struggle mooted with six days remaining until the trip to the capital.
Sunderland struggles predicted before play-offs
There will be a sizable number of Mackems travelling down south in the hopes of winning another play-off final.
Last time it was Ross Stewart who took the headlines to send the SR5 club to the Championship, and now someone else will do the same on 24 April.
This won’t be easy against a Sheffield United side with plenty of quality after only facing relegation last campaign.
As positive as a spot in the Premier League would be for the Black Cats, former Brentford and Leicester City manager Martin Allen believes it will be a rough season after promotion.
“Sheffield United will be strong favourites for that game,” Allen told Mackem News
“Coventry were most definitely the better team throughout the game until Sunderland stepped it up in the final part of extra time.
“Often, when teams play at home in the play-offs, pressure can be too much and make it difficult to cope and deal with, and it seemed that Sunderland struggled at times.
“They were slow, sluggish and couldn’t really get going and all credit to Coventry for that.
“Both teams will struggle whoever goes up, but I would definitely put Sheffield United in there as the favourites after watching Sunderland.“
Premier League football could be step too far for Sunderland
After taking so long to get out of the third division, it does feel as if the rise up the Championship has been quick.
The work of Tony Mowbray in the past certainly played its part in establishing the north east club as play-off contenders in the side.
| Season | Division | Finishing position |
| 2024/25 | Championship | 4 |
| 2023/24 | Championship | 16 |
| 2022/23 | Championship | 6 |
| 2021/22 | League One | 5 |
| 2020/21 | League One | 4 |
Fans all have fond memories of the likes of Amad Diallo and Jack Clarke, who are certainly missed despite the successes of the current season.
With that being said, the current group are the first to reach this stage and with the likes of Wilson Isidor and Enzo Le Fee, can be confident of their own ability.
It would be a massive challenge if a spot in the Premier League was earned, given how much quality already exists in the top tier right now.