Sunderland have fresh voodoo to overcome to seal Premier League return
Sunderland have already ended a 40-year voodoo with their 2-1 away win against Coventry, though they have a fresh one to overcome if they are to win at Wembley.
Just six days remain until Sunderland step onto the Wembley pitch for their biggest game of the season against Sheffield United.
Regis Le Bris‘ side are 90 minutes away from making a return to the Premier League for the first time since 2016, though they will not be the favourites.
Added to that, the latest Wembley reveal will spark even more concern for the Wearsiders who take much notice of history.
Chris Kavanagh to take charge of Sunderland v Sheffield United
Sunderland already have a difficult task ahead of them when they make the trip to Wembley at the weekend, facing a side who finished 14 points ahead of them.
However, Sunderland have already defeated the Blades once this season, and there is no reason why they can’t do it again and secure their spot back in the Premier League.
| Team | Position | Goal Difference | Points |
| Sheffield United | 3 | 27 | 90 |
| Sunderland | 4 | 14 | 76 |
With that said, if that is to happen, they will need to win a game in which Chris Kavanagh is the referee; something they have failed to do on the five occasions he has taken charge of one of their fixtures.
The Black Cats have lost four and drawn one of the fixtures he has been in control of, though the last one was back in 2023, when the Wearsiders fell to a 2-1 defeat away to Rotherham.
Sunderland fans will have a huge role to play at Wembley
Black Cats supporters played a massive role in their semi-final triumph against Coventry City, and they will be needed once again against the Blades.
Their backing this season has been exemplary, and with over 35,000 Mackems making the trip to London, they will undoubtedly make their voices heard.
From there on out, it will be up to the players to turn that atmosphere into a performance and get this sleeping giant of a club back where it belongs.