{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":["local"],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
I’m so surprised that he’s doing that, i bet there’s loads of people who say that about him but all the critics have been proved wrong.
He’s undoubtedly going to play a part in the Premier League, and I personally think that he’ll do well”- Former Sunderland defender Tom Flanagan names ‘unbelievable’ Sunderland star who has proved critics wrong amid ‘massive regret’ claim
Tom Flanagan Praises Former Teammate Luke O’Nien and Reflects on Sunderland Exit
Ex-Sunderland defender Tom Flanagan has praised his former teammate Luke O’Nien, stating the versatile 30-year-old has silenced his critics and is ready to prove himself in the Premier League next season.
Flanagan, who played alongside O’Nien during Sunderland’s time in League One, saw the midfielder play a key role in helping the Black Cats secure a return to the Premier League with a 2-1 win over Sheffield United at Wembley last weekend.
Despite O’Nien’s consistent contributions to Regis Le Bris’ squad, he has faced occasional criticism during his time on Wearside. Flanagan believes his teammate’s rise to the top tier is a clear response to those doubters.
Flanagan on O’Nien’s Work Ethic and Journey
Speaking on the What The Falk podcast, Flanagan, now with Colchester United, said:
“All Luke does is work harder — and it’s incredible. He’s the definition of the ‘10,000 hours’ rule. That’s who Luke is.
“I once played with someone who had known Luke from his time at Watford’s youth system. That guy was amazed Luke had made it this far, and I think a lot of people feel the same. But Luke has proved all the doubters wrong. There’s no question in my mind that he’ll hold his own in the Premier League — and I think he’ll thrive.”
Flanagan Opens Up About Sunderland Departure
Flanagan also spoke candidly about his 2022 exit from Sunderland, admitting he still feels disappointed by how it unfolded.
“I’ve got one big regret, but aside from that, I have no hard feelings about being at Sunderland or living in Sunderland — it was a great time,” he shared.
Asked about that regret, Flanagan explained:
“Leaving — and especially how I left — that’s still a sore subject for me. I’m not blaming anyone, and I’m not trying to make it a sob story, but I didn’t want to go. I wasn’t happy about it. The decision was kind of made for me, and in hindsight, it was a poor one.
“At the end of the day, no one physically forced me to leave or tore up my contract. I still had to sign the papers. That’s football. But we’re people, not just assets to be bought and sold. At that time, the environment felt more like a factory — it was a tough, cutthroat business. That’s just the reality of the game sometimes.”
