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“Everton Goal-Keeper Jordan Pickford breaks silence on Sunderland’s promotion with 100-word response to Liverpool media amid Sunderland link
Jordan Pickford breaks silence on Sunderland’s promotion with 100-word response to Liverpool media
Jordan Pickford Expresses Pride as Boyhood Club Sunderland Secures Premier League Return
England and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has shared his delight after Sunderland, the club where he began his football journey, secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Sheffield United at Wembley to earn promotion to the Premier League.
Pickford, who joined Sunderland’s academy at just eight years old and made 35 first-team appearances before moving to Everton in 2017, couldn’t attend the play-off final in person due to his club commitments. However, he still managed to catch the historic moment.
“Luckily our flight was delayed a bit, so we watched the game in the lounge,” Pickford told The Liverpool Echo after Everton’s 1-0 win over Newcastle. “It was a brilliant result, and loads of my mates were down at Wembley for it.”
He admitted he had considered making the trip to watch in person but quickly realized it wouldn’t have been approved by Everton manager David Moyes.
“I don’t think the gaffer would’ve let me go — I probably wouldn’t be here if I had!” he joked.
Pickford attended the first leg of the semi-final at the Stadium of Light, where Sunderland beat Coventry City 3-1, further highlighting his continued bond with his hometown club.
“For a club of Sunderland’s size and stature, getting back to the Premier League is huge,” Pickford said. “It’ll be special to face them again at the Stadium of Light. That moment will mean a lot to me.”
Now a mainstay for both Everton and the England national team, Pickford remains a passionate Sunderland supporter and sees their top-flight return as a personal and emotional milestone.
Sunderland Boss Régis Le Bris on Promotion Triumph
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris praised his squad’s determination and unity following the dramatic win at Wembley.
“It was another incredible match, just like the semi-final,” he said. “Tough for coaches and fans, but we showed real character. Even when we weren’t in control, we stayed together and stuck to the plan. That’s what eventually turned the game in our favour.”
Le Bris also reflected on an early injury to Luke and the importance of team depth.
“We had to make a change early, but I felt confident bringing Meps on. He’s been outstanding all season — not just as a player but as a professional,” Le Bris noted. “Even when he lost his starting spot before the semis, he stayed committed. That attitude proved crucial today.”
The coach also revealed tactical decisions made to neutralize Sheffield United’s threat, specifically adjusting to handle Kieffer Moore’s physical presence.
“We swapped Meps with Ballard to counter their strategy. It was a key move and helped us manage the game,” he concluded.
