Sunderland goalkeeper sends Tommy Watson message after new announcement
Tommy Watson changed Sunderland hearts by gifting the Wearside club with Premier League football in the most dramatic way.
After Watson agreed to join Brighton in early April, there was uproar among some supporters, which led to the winger being booed at the Stadium of Light.
It appeared that his stay on Wearside would fizzle out on a low despite showing signs of greatness in red and white.
However, his strike at the death of the play-off final won Sunderland fans over, and it hasn’t been forgotten by those in the squad.
Matt Young sends Watson message on Instagram
When Watson sealed his move to Brighton, nobody could have imagined the narrative he would write before departing the Stadium of Light.
As he watched on from the bench at Wembley Stadium with his side behind, it looked as though Watson and Sunderland would be playing in different divisions next season.
However, his introduction triggered the wildest scenes many supporters have ever witnessed as bedlam engulfed the West Stand.
| Tommy Watson’s 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances (starts) | 20 (11) |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Touches | 24.6 |
| Big chances created | 2 |
| Accurate passes | 9 (80%) |
Now, the Black Cats and the 19-year-old will face off next season on amicable terms after Brighton announced his signing on social media.
The Seagulls shared the classic signing photograph of the teenager putting pen to paper on Instagram (1 June) with a message underneath: “From Sunderland to the South Coast.”
In the comments section, Sunderland goalkeeper Matt Young responded with his parting message for the winger.
He posted the raising hands emoji in support of Watson sealing the move to the Amex Stadium.
Sunderland must replace Watson with new winger
Given that the Wearsiders have known about Watson’s departure for some time, they will likely have drawn up a list of replacements.
Regis Le Bris does possess quality on the wings in Romaine Mundle and Patrick Roberts, while Enzo Le Fee has also been utilised out wide.
However, the North East club must buy better players if they are to hurt their opponents in the Premier League.
Amad Diallo has been linked with a move to the Stadium of Light, but those reports must surely be wide of the mark.
One player who Sunderland should keep an eye on is Gustavo Hamer, who is set to leave Sheffield United this window.
The Brazilian has been at the top of his game for some time and would certainly improve Le Bris’ young side.
Although he plays primarily as a number 10, he has shown his worth on the flank for Chris Wilder; indeed, he played on the left in the play-off final.
With the transfer window in full swing, the Black Cats must prioritise a move for a dangerous winger.