Alan shearer fires sunderland premier league warning after play-off verdict

THE NEWCASTLE UNITED LEGEND HAS HAD HIS SAY ON SUNDERLAND'S RETURN TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE 10:00, 29 May 2025 Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer believes arch-rivals Sunderland are in

for a difficult season after winning promotion back to the Premier League and will need an influx of players to survive in the top flight. The Black Cats secured their place in next

season's Premier League with a 2-1 win over Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, coming from behind to see off the Blades. Goals from Eliezer Mayenda and Tommy Watson

completed a dramatic late comeback to end their eight-year absence from the top flight. Shearer believes that the Black Cats 'got battered' by Chris Wilder's side at Wembley

Stadium, though red and white supporters will take little notice of their arch-rival. "For large parts of the play-off final, Sunderland got battered but they defended very well and

managed to get the goals to hold Sheffield United off," Shearer said in an interview with Betfair. "I also think that watching the final also told you how far they have to go to

actually stay in the Premier League. "It's one thing getting to the Premier League, and another staying there. You can say the same for Leeds and Burnley too. Article continues

below "I know I've joked about Sunderland in the past, but in seriousness, it's a much better season, as a player and fan, when you've got the derby to look forward to.

"They're great games to play in, the fans look forward to them, you get away with a little bit more in terms of what you do and how you play. I wouldn't say I'm pleased

they got promoted, but in terms of the entertainment and for something to look forward to, I'm pleased they're back in the Premier League, yeah. "They're going to find it

difficult next season, there's no doubt about it. When you look at the squad, it'll be very, very difficult for them to stay in the league as the evidence proves over the last two

years because every team has gone back down and I don't see anything different unless there's a radical change and they bring an influx of god knows how many players in. "I

see Sunderland having a tough season and I think even the fans will say that, but that doesn't mean they can't enjoy last weekend's promotion. "We had the cup game a

couple of years ago when Newcastle won comfortably and I'd hope that happens again next season for obvious reasons but as much as I laugh and joke about Sunderland, they really are good

games to play in. "As a fan now, I'm pleased they're back but not for any other reason. Hopefully Newcastle can take six points off them!" Article continues below _Make

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