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“That might come back to bite’”- Alan Shearer shares Sunderland promotion hope amid Black Cats’ Premier League push
Sunderland have been absent from the Premier League since 2017, but Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer is eager to see them return to the top flight.
The Black Cats are in a strong position to earn promotion this season. After 15 games, they sit at the top of the Championship and have been impressive under new manager Regis Le Bris. Sunderland spent 10 years in the Premier League from 2007 to 2017 but were relegated under David Moyes and have struggled to return since. However, this season offers their best chance yet after a turbulent period in League One and a near miss in the Championship play-offs.
One person hoping to see Sunderland back in the Premier League is Alan Shearer, a figure not exactly beloved on Wearside. When asked on The Rest is Football Podcast whether he would like to see Sunderland promoted, Shearer responded:
“Yes, definitely. Absolutely.
“We want Sunderland back in the Premier League because it’s guaranteed six points for us, isn’t it? That might come back to bite me in the future.
“You want to play in those games. They’re fantastic derby matches, both at St. James’ and at Sunderland. So, yeah, I want them back up because it’s not just great for the players, but for the fans as well.”
Jeff Stelling, another North East figure, also voiced his support for Sunderland’s promotion ambitions. Despite being a Hartlepool United fan, Stelling has been backing Sunderland this season. On the talkSPORT breakfast show, he praised their promotion prospects, calling it an “amazing achievement” given the competition from teams benefiting from parachute payments.
However, Le Bris remains grounded despite the growing optimism. When asked about the possibility of promotion, the French manager responded, “We will need 90 points and 30 victories. It’s a good start, but nothing more,” as quoted by James Copley.
Looking ahead, Sunderland face a challenging week after the international break. They first travel to Millwall, followed by a midweek home game against West Bromwich Albion.
West Brom, a team also aiming for promotion, have struggled with recent form. After six consecutive draws, in which they failed to score on four occasions, Carlos Corberan’s side managed a 2-1 victory over Hull City last weekend.
The toughest challenge of the month will come with a trip to second-placed Sheffield United. The Blades are in strong form and will provide a significant test for Sunderland’s bid to stay at the top of the Championship.
