Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Sat 5 April 2025 14:41, UK

Trai Hume has been a shining star for Sunderland throughout the current campaign, and it was no different in their 1-0 win against West Brom.

Sunderland picked up another three points away to West Brom on Saturday afternoon, all but cementing their spot in the playoffs while somewhat keeping themselves up to pace with the top three.

Automatic promotion remains unlikely for Sunderland, though form and momentum will still be crucial for the Black Cats if they are to find success via the playoffs. 

Hume will have an integral role to play in that achievement, and his showing at The Hawthorns once again showcased just how good he is. 

Sunderland have clear POTS contender 

Hume’s goal was once again the difference maker in the 1-0 against Albion, just as it was against Millwall in the previous encounter. 

His long-range free kick went straight through the hands of Joe Wildsmith, but earned him his ninth goal contribution of the season from fullback, showcasing just how dangerous he has been going forward. 

Especially from set pieces, his delivery has been outstanding, and it was no different against the Baggies.

His willingness to get stuck into tackles was on display yet again, and with Premier League clubs already sniffing around him, these levels of performance will only amplify that interest in the summer. 

One thing certain is that he is a real contender for Sunderland’s Player of the Season.

Sunderland are slowly returning to their best 

It would take something beyond belief to prevent Sunderland from getting in the playoffs now, and that is an achievement in itself. 

However, without promotion, very few will look at it that way, and for that to be the case, they will need to be at their best to have a real chance of returning to the Premier League.

Six games remain for the Mackems, and they simply need to maintain their current form and trajectory, and if so, the future looks remarkably bright.