Kristjaan Speakman reflects on two controversial calls that proved key to Sunderland’s promotion
Tommy Watson’s Last-Minute Winner Secures Sunderland’s Promotion to the Premier League
Sunderland clinched a dramatic promotion to the Premier League with a stoppage-time victory over Sheffield United at Wembley, thanks to a sensational goal from academy graduate Tommy Watson.
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman praised Watson for his resilience and professionalism during a challenging final stretch of the season. Despite the earlier announcement of his upcoming transfer to Brighton, Speakman said there were never any doubts about Watson’s commitment to his boyhood club.
“Some people might have found it unusual that Tommy’s move to Brighton was confirmed before the season ended,” Speakman said. “But we’ve always aimed to be transparent with supporters, and throughout it all, his dedication to Sunderland and our promotion push was never in question.”
Watson initially struggled to regain top form following injury and the pressure surrounding his future. But his unforgettable 95th-minute goal at Wembley sealed Sunderland’s return to the top flight—and carved his name into club folklore.
“For a player who joined us at six years old, worked through the entire academy system, and then scored the winner at Wembley—it’s like something out of a movie,” Speakman said. “He showed tremendous resolve despite the criticism, constantly working to earn his place and contribute when called upon.”
The final itself showcased Sunderland’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. Academy product Dan Neil captained the side, and goalkeeper Anthony Patterson was named Man of the Match.
Speakman also reflected on the broader strategy that led to the club’s success, particularly the much-debated squad rotation approach during the closing stages of the regular season.
“Our main goal was always promotion,” he explained. “To achieve that with so many academy players involved—some who’ve been with us since League One and others more recently recruited, like Enzo—is incredibly rewarding.
“There was plenty of discussion around our decision to rest and rotate players late in the season, but we had a plan in place. Being ready for the play-offs was crucial, and clearly, it paid off.”
Tommy Watson Reflects on His Wembley Moment
Watson, who has two younger brothers in Sunderland’s academy, described his dramatic winner as a “dream come true.”
“I’m so glad I could finish my time here on a high,” he said. “There have been tough moments, but my family, my girlfriend, and the lads—especially Luke [O’Nien]—have been amazing.
“People close to me kept saying it would end this way, and I couldn’t have imagined it any better. I’m a Sunderland player today and hopefully a legend now too. I’ve supported this club my whole life, been at Wembley for the heartbreaks—so this is a dream come true.”
He also hopes his story will inspire the next generation.
“Hopefully my younger brothers look at this and want to follow in my footsteps. And I can’t thank Luke enough—he’s been incredible with me and so many of the other young players.”
