Departing Stoke City player considers next move as free agent.
Ex-Sunderland utility man among four senior players released by Stoke City this summer. Lynden Gooch is carefully weighing his options as he approaches the end […]
Sunderland
Ipswich told to pay £30–40m for Jack Clarke in clear transfer message
Jack Clarke is aiming to rediscover his best form at Ipswich Town in the 2025/26 Championship season after a tough first year ended in Premier […]
Newcastle may have dodged a £35m mistake after Eddie Howe rejected Paul Mitchell’s alternative to Marc Guehi.
Last summer, it strongly felt like Newcastle United’s transfer plan was “Marc Guehi or nothing” — and that’s essentially what happened, aside from signing Lloyd […]
Shock Clause Uncovered in Eliezer Mayenda Deal as Sunderland’s £21.4m Transfer Spree Raises Eyebrows
Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League has triggered a cascade of financial commitments, beginning with a €500,000 bonus payment to French club Sochaux as part of the deal for Eliezer Mayenda. Signed in the summer of 2023, Mayenda was viewed as a high-potential talent plucked from a financially stricken Sochaux side. Though his first season in England was quiet, the young forward emerged as a key figure in Sunderland’s successful promotion push, cementing his place in the club’s future plans. With a 20% sell-on clause also in Sochaux’s favor, the French club stands to benefit further if Mayenda’s trajectory continues upward.
Even Pricier Than Hamer? Sunderland Unearth ‘Sensational’ Talent in Stunning Twist
Régis Le Bris stands on the brink of history. With Sunderland poised for a long-awaited return to the Premier League, the Frenchman could become the manager who ends an eight-year exile from the top flight. But between him and glory looms a dangerous Sheffield United side, freshly rejuvenated under Chris Wilder. The stage is set at Wembley, where two ambitious clubs—and two sensational midfielders—will clash in a battle that could define their futures.
All eyes will be on Jobe Bellingham, the 19-year-old prodigy whose stock has soared to £22 million. His rise mirrors Sunderland’s own resurgence, and while Gustavo Hamer brings proven pedigree and a Player of the Season award to the table, it’s Bellingham who could be the difference-maker. If Sunderland fall short, they may lose their brightest spark to the European elite. But if they triumph, it may mark the beginning of a new era—one led by youth, vision, and the bold leadership of Le Bris.
Dan Neil Reveals the Hidden Influence of Chris Mepham in Sunderland’s Rise
Dan Neil has hailed Chris Mepham as Sunderland’s unsung hero, praising the Bournemouth loanee for his immense contributions both on and off the pitch. Despite being ever-present throughout the regular season, Mepham was dropped for the play-offs following Dan Ballard’s return to fitness—a decision that proved decisive in Sunderland’s push for promotion. Still, Neil was quick to highlight Mepham’s professionalism and influence behind the scenes, calling him “an unbelievable character” who played a major role in uniting the squad. Whether it was offering advice, backing his teammates, or lifting spirits during away trips, Mepham’s impact extended well beyond the starting eleven.
Frank Lampard Hails Coventry as ‘Better Team’ — But His Surprise Message About Dan Ballard Steals the Spotlight
“He was fantastic,” Frank Lampard said of Sunderland defender Dan Ballard, praising his commanding presence across both legs of the Championship play-off semi-final. “You could sense he was the one with real presence at the back.” Despite the heartbreak of Coventry’s defeat, Lampard expressed pride in his team’s performance, believing they were the better side overall. “We got back in the game and the feeling was we would go on and win it,” he reflected. “That’s football—it can be cruel in critical moments.”
After Regis Le Bris Snubbed Coventry, Chris Rigg’s Stunning Reaction Leaves Sunderland Manager Speechless
Despite the disappointment of being left out of the starting XI, 17-year-old Chris Rigg responded with maturity and determination that deeply impressed Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris. Having been a consistent presence all season, Rigg could have taken the decision personally — but instead, he embraced the team’s goals and made his mark when it mattered most. Introduced in the second half, it took him just 11 minutes to help tip the tie in Sunderland’s favour. Le Bris later praised both Rigg’s attitude and impact, calling his reaction “impressive” and highlighting the vital role such players play in a tightly contested play-off campaign.
Lampard’s Lions Hunt Redemption: Can They Break Sunderland’s Grip and Ignite a Comeback?
Frank Lampard faces a pivotal night as he prepares Coventry City for a must-win clash at the Stadium of Light, aiming to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Sunderland. With tactical decisions under the spotlight, Lampard may turn to key figures like Ben Wilson, making a sentimental return to his boyhood club, and Ephron Mason-Clark, whose return from injury offers a potential spark. The big question remains whether Wright leads the line or shifts wide to accommodate other attacking options. One thing is certain: Coventry will need a bold performance to keep their Wembley dream alive.
Hostility Reignited: Coventry City and Sunderland’s Fierce Rivalry Since ’77 Reaches Boiling Point as Bragging Rights Hang in the Balance
Coventry City’s hopes of reaching Wembley hang in the balance as they head into Tuesday’s second leg of their Championship play-off semi-final against Sunderland trailing 2-1. A costly late mistake by Milan van Ewijk handed the Black Cats a crucial edge, but the Sky Blues remain defiant. With a storied rivalry dating back to 1977—fueled by controversy, resentment, and decades of tension—this clash is about more than just promotion. For Sunderland fans, it’s a chance to avenge the infamous final day of the 1976/77 season, while for Coventry, it’s an opportunity to overcome history and write a new chapter under Frank Lampard’s leadership.