It feels like an age ago since Sunderland were in League One. But in reality, it was less than two years ago.
After defeating Wycombe Wanderers in the play-off final, Sunderland completed their eagerly anticipated return to the Championship at the end of the 2021–2022 season.
After a lengthy series of unfit predecessors, Neil was the one to finally get the Black Cats over the finish line.
Neil would depart for Stoke City shortly after the 2022–2023 season began, and the Potters have since fired him.
Alex Neil gives ‘unbelievable’ speech ahead of Sunderland vs Wycombe Wanderers
After defeating Wycombe Wanderers in the play-off final, Sunderland completed their eagerly anticipated return to the Championship at the end of the 2021–2022 season.
After a lengthy series of unfit predecessors, Neil was the one to finally get the Black Cats over the finish line.
Neil would depart for Stoke City shortly after the 2022–2023 season began, and the Potters have since fired him.
“Everyone now believes thanks to Alex. My greatest regret is not having filmed Alex’s incredible speech that she gave prior to the game.
“This is your chance, don’t let yourself down, and write your name in history by being the ones to lift Sunderland out of League One after so long. Do it for the fans, your friends, and your family. This is your moment,” he concluded. Something similar to it.
“Everyone in the dressing room will probably remember it; it was an amazing speech.”
On that particular day, they defeated Gareth Ainsworth’s Wycombe Wanderers 2-0, with goals coming from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart.
What could’ve been for Neil at the Stadium of Light
Things might be quite different now for both parties if Neil had stayed at the Stadium of Light.
It’s unclear what Neil’s future holds after failing at Stoke City and damaging his reputation during his time there. For a short while, he was rumored to be returning to Sunderland.
And Sunderland might not be in this situation now if they were able to retain Neil, who was performing well, when the team got promoted back to the second division.
Due to managerial changes and Michael Beale’s bad selection, the Black Cats now need points only to guarantee their Championship survival for another season.
Furthermore, Sunderland, who have dropped their previous six Championship games, seems far removed from memories such as the one from the League One play-off final.
The Black Cats’ next match comes at home against QPR this coming weekend; with just nine points separating them currently, a loss for Mike Dodds’ team may truly push them into the relegation zone.
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