“Unreal to witness”- Sunderland Legend Kevin Phillips reveals truth hehind Wembley win as Peter Reid’s response caught everyone off guard
Kevin Phillips Hails Sunderland’s “Awesome” Premier League Promotion After Dramatic Wembley Win
Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips has praised his former club following their dramatic Championship play-off final victory over Sheffield United, describing the comeback at Wembley as “awesome.”
Regis Le Bris’ side had a shaky start in Saturday’s final and went into halftime trailing after Tyrese Campbell’s first-half goal.
However, a spirited second-half performance saw late strikes from Eliezer Mayenda and Tommy Watson secure a 2-1 win and seal Sunderland’s return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence.
While both Phillips and former Sunderland manager Peter Reid were initially unimpressed by the first-half showing, the 51-year-old was full of admiration for the Black Cats’ resilience and determination to turn the game around.
What Did Kevin Phillips Say About the Victory?
Speaking on talkSPORT the day after the final, Phillips said:
“It took me a while to get going this morning, let’s just say that! I avoided a night out with Peter Reid, thankfully — I don’t think I’d have made it here if I had!”
Reflecting on the result, he added:
“What a journey it’s been for Sunderland. From Premier League relegation, the drop to League One, four years trying to get out, then stabilising in the Championship. To see them back in the top flight is truly special.”
Phillips praised the risk the club took in appointing an unknown manager in Le Bris and highlighted the squad’s youth and perseverance:
“It was a big gamble. The team is young and no one really knew much about the manager. But what they’ve accomplished is remarkable.
They lost their last five league games heading into the play-offs, and most wouldn’t have backed them. But they showed character and unity — just as Le Bris said.”
He admitted he doubted a comeback was possible after the poor first half:
“Honestly, after that first half, I didn’t think they could turn it around. Me and Reidy were sat there kicking each other, disappointed. But credit to Regis — whatever he said at halftime worked. They came out like a different team: more aggressive, energetic, and positive.”
Phillips also applauded the impact of Sunderland’s substitutes, especially the goal scorers:
“As a manager, you want your subs to make a difference, and that’s exactly what happened. Full credit to the team and everyone at the club. It was an awesome performance.”
