Sunderland captain Luke O’Nein was on top of the world after the club gained promotion back to the Premier League.
The Black Cats were the second-best team for much of the 2-1 win over Sheffield United, but came alive in the 75th minute to upset the odds against Chris Wilder’s men.
After an opener from Tyrese Campbell 25 minutes in, the North-East side responded through Ellezer Mayenda, who did well to latch onto a ball and smash his strike into the roof of the net.
Then in the 95th minute, substitute Tom Watson produced a moment of magic off the bench, placing one into the far right corner and setting off what sounded like a small explosion inside Wembley Stadium.
O’Nein himself only had a small part to play in the match after being withdraw through injury less than five minutes into the game.
But bandaged up and with a smile on his face, the seasoned Sunderland man was more than happy to sum up how he was feeling at full-time.
SUNDERLAND BEAT SHEFFIELD UNITED TO EARN PROMOTION TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/frg8tb2SdA
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) May 24, 2025
He said: “It’s probably my best game since joining the club!
“I’m so proud of this club and these boys – I can’t believe what’s just happened.
“I’ve never felt anxiety like that – but the gaffer said if you get one goal who knows what can happen.
“Those boys, Tommy Watson – Sunderland legend. They’re all Sunderland legends. I am just delighted to play a part in the happiness. What am I saying, I didn’t play a part, I did nothing.
“I was just there on the side watching – I covered more ground celebrating when Eliezer and Tommy scored.”
