Regis Le Bris’ side enjoyed an exhilarating start to the season, reaching the summit for several weeks. However, form has suffered since the turn of the year as the Black Cats sit firmly in fourth place, and Sunderland’s season looks set to be defined in the Championship play-offs.
Sunderland are no stranger to cup final showdowns in the capital. With yet another play-off final on the cards, one beloved Black Cats legend has recalled his two-goal haul that almost inspired Wembley glory.
Aiden McGeady is undoubtedly a modern-day Sunderland legend. Despite his Wearside time transpiring during the club’s agonising demotion to League One, the tricky winger will always be revered by the Stadium of Light faithful.
Now retired, McGeady made 150 appearances in red and white, notching 71 goal contributions in his five-season stint at Sunderland.
Two of his most iconic Sunderland strikes came in the EFL Trophy Final defeat at Wembley against Portsmouth in the 2018/19 season.
McGeady’s cup heartbreak was followed by Sunderland’s League One play-off final defeat to Charlton. Sunderland’s Wembley hoodoo was lifted at the end of the 2021/22 campaign in McGeady’s final season on Wearside.
Sunderland’s 2024/25 Championship season could be defined in another Wembley showpiece if they reach the play-off final this season.
The Republic of Ireland international, and the rest of the Wearside faithful will be hoping Le Bris’ Black Cats can repeat that victorious feat, if destiny deems it fit for Sunderland’s season to curtail underneath the Wembley arch once again.
