NafisaSunderland made their return to the Premier League by defeating Sheffield United at Wembley, but the Black Cats certainly didn’t take the straightforward route.
Sheffield United came into the clash as favourites after thrashing Bristol City in the semi-final, and their dominance was evident in the opening 45 minutes.
Tyrese Campbell netted the first goal following a stunning, lung-busting run from Gustavo Hamer who provided the assist.
In truth, Sunderland looked second-best for large portions of the Championship play-off final, and if not for some exceptional saves from Anthony Patterson, they might have conceded a few more.
Luckily, a few game-changing second-half substitutions from Regis Le Bris sparked a turnaround. Patrick Roberts entered from the bench to expertly assist Eliezer Mayenda, who blasted his shot past Michael Cooper, before Tommy Watson — set for a move to Brighton — struck the winner in stoppage time.
Watson’s goal sealed Sunderland’s Premier League return just before his £10 million switch to Brighton, and the Black Cats have already secured a new arrival themselves.
Sunderland finalize Enzo Le Fee deal after promotion:
Sunderland brought in Enzo Le Fee from Roma during the January transfer window. The gifted forward joined on a temporary deal with a mandatory purchase clause worth £19 million, triggered upon promotion to the Premier League.
Thanks to Watson’s late heroics, Sunderland have now officially signed Le Fee from the Serie A side, making him their first confirmed addition of the summer window.
The 25-year-old has delivered flashes of quality since arriving, including two assists in the play-off semi-final clash against Coventry.
Now, fans of the Wearside outfit will get the chance to watch the Frenchman perform in the Premier League after finalising his switch to the Stadium of Light.
How did Le Fee fare in the Championship play-off final?
In the final, Le Fee struggled to impose himself early on, with United’s intense midfield and solid defence keeping him largely quiet.
The Sunderland creator managed only 18 touches in the first half, with only Mayenda (11) having fewer during a tough stretch.
However, once Le Bris replaced Chris Rigg with Roberts, Le Fee shifted into a more central position and became increasingly influential in the final half-hour.
Enzo Le Fee’s numbers vs Sheffield United
- 90 minutes played
- 27/29 successful passes (93%)
- 1 key pass
- 2 ground duels won
- 1 tackle
- 2 dribble attempts
Sheffield United found it harder to contain his creative spark late on, as shown by his key contribution leading to Roberts’ assist and his intelligent movement off the ball.
Now, after securing promotion, Sunderland supporters can look forward to seeing him take on elite-level opponents in the Premier League.
Nafisa
