Luke O’Nien reveals key Regis Le Bris message that inspired Sunderland’s comeback in play-off final
Sunderland Fight Back to Beat Sheffield United and Return to the Premier League
Sunderland staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Sheffield United 2-1 in the Championship play-off final, earning promotion back to the Premier League after an eight-year absence.
Luke O’Nien revealed the powerful half-time message delivered by head coach Regis Le Bris that helped inspire the turnaround at Wembley. The Blades had dominated the first half and went into the break ahead thanks to a composed finish from Tyrese Campbell, who beat Sunderland keeper and eventual man of the match Anthony Patterson.
Sheffield United held their lead until the final 15 minutes, but the tide turned with the introduction of Patrick Roberts and academy graduate Tommy Watson—both of whom found the net to complete a memorable comeback for the Black Cats.
O’Nien played only a brief role in the final, having been forced off early with a dislocated shoulder following an aerial collision with Kieffer Moore. Though treated in the dressing room, he returned to the bench to cheer on his teammates and later joined in the celebrations after goals from Mayenda and Watson.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the final whistle, an emotional O’Nien praised his teammates and shared how Le Bris’ halftime words helped change the course of the game.
“I honestly don’t know why you’re interviewing me,” he joked. “It’s probably my best game in a Sunderland shirt—despite being off after ten minutes! I’m unbelievably proud of these lads.
“I’ve never experienced anxiety like that. I was quietly confident, though—we’ve come back so many times this season. The plan was to reach half-time, grab one goal, and then go for another. That’s exactly what the gaffer said: that next goal would change everything.”
O’Nien also paid tribute to goal-scorer Tommy Watson, calling him a “Sunderland legend,” and expressed his gratitude for being part of the club’s return to top-flight football.
“I think I ran more celebrating those goals than I did on the pitch,” he added. “I’m just so grateful to be part of this joy.”
