Ghanaian midfielder Salis Abdul Samed may not have featured in the final, but he had every reason to celebrate as Sunderland sealed their long-awaited return to the English Premier League with a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Sheffield United at Wembley.
It was a night of redemption for the Black Cats, who had spent eight years outside the top flight. Tyrese Campbell’s first-half strike for the Blades threatened to derail their promotion dreams, but Sunderland responded in style.
Eliezer Mayenda brought them level before teenage forward Tom Watson came off the bench to net a late winner that sent the red half of Wearside into raptures.
While Salis remained an unused substitute on the big day, his contribution across the season hasn’t gone unnoticed.
On loan from French side RC Lens, the 24-year-old made ten appearances during the Championship campaign, often anchoring the midfield with calmness and composure when fit.
Persistent injuries curtailed what could have been a standout year for the Ghana international, but Sunderland fans caught glimpses of his quality in key moments. The club now faces a decision; whether to trigger the option to make his stay permanent or negotiate an extension to the loan.
Salis is also tipped to earn a call-up to the Black Stars for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament in London, offering him a platform to showcase his talent on the international stage once more.
As Sunderland return to the Premier League spotlight, Salis Abdul Samed will hope the journey is just beginning;for both club and country.
