Sunderland triumphed against Sheffield United to secure a spot in next season's Premier League after a dramatic Championship play-off final clash at Wembley. It's another defiant win for Sunderland, who dropped down to League One following their relegation from the first tier and will now return for the first time since 2017.

It looked like it was going to be a simple afternoon's work for their opponents, given Tyrese Campbell netted in the first half to put Sheffield United one goal to the good. Harrison Burrows thought he'd added a second for the South Yorkshire outfit before the break, but a VAR check revealed an offside infringement, meaning the score remained 1-0 heading into half-time.

The second United goal that would've inevitably secured promotion never arrived, with Sunderland the side looking more likely to score after the interval. Patrick Roberts' introduction brought the North East outfit back to life, with the winger playing the pass that led to Eliezer Mayenda's equaliser midway through the second half.

It was a goal that ignited Sunderland, and from that point on, they were the only side that looked like winning. Sunderland's destiny was confirmed when substitute Tom Watson curled home the winning goal in added time. Following Sunderland's promotion to the Premier League, Express Sport have detailed five Black Cats stars who could cause the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal problems next season.

Enzo Le Fee

Dubbed one of the ‘best-ever Championship signings’ when he arrived from Roma on an initial loan in January, the expectation is that Sunderland, following their return to the big time, will secure the permanent signing of Enzo Le Fee. A dazzling attacker, with incredible technical ability, the Frenchman will certainly be one to watch next season.

Chris Rigg

It’s been a remarkable season for Chris Rigg, who at just 17 years old has featured 47 times across all competitions for the Black Cats. Already a youth international for England, Rigg is being tipped to enjoy a stellar career in the game and given he doesn’t turn 18 until June, it’s safe to say the teenage sensation has his best years ahead of him.

Anthony Patterson

The next impressive young goalkeeper to have caught the eye at Sunderland, Anthony Patterson is looking to follow in the footsteps of England No.1 Jordan Pickford and establish a career in the top flight. That’s if they can keep hold of him, given Premier League teams have reportedly been keeping tabs on the 25-year-old.

Jobe Bellingham

While his surname might go before him, Jobe Bellingham will now have the chance to shine on the biggest stage himself. The teenager has put the hard yards in for Sunderland and his energy in midfield will be much-needed when they come up against the big boys next season.

Eliezer Mayenda

The man whose goal dragged a Sunderland team who had for the most part been well below par back into the contest. Bursting in behind the Blades defence, Eliezer Mayenda had the presence of mind to lift his strike and nestle it into the roof of the Wembley net. At just 20 years old, he's another gem whose best years are ahead of him and with finishing ability like that, there's every chance he'll torment Premier League defenders next term.