Kevin Phillips hails Sunderland fans as Europa return secured after Chelsea win | OneFootball

Kevin Phillips hailed Sunderland supporters after a win over Chelsea capped a remarkable campaign and confirmed European football for the first time in 53 years. "Incredible. I've seen some atmospheres at this stadium, over the years, played in some, been to games, but that yesterday topped it all."

As reported by Sunderland Echo, the former Sunderland striker was at the Stadium of Light as Régis Le Bris’ side clinched a Europa League place for next season.

"I think the last five, ten minutes were a bit tense, obviously, but when that final whistle went, wow, you know, it doesn't surprise me, but they took it to a new level. So the season's been phenomenal. When you think, it wasn't that long ago we were in League One, and the transformation, the transition with the new owners, new players, has been outstanding."

Phillips scored 130 goals in 235 appearances for Sunderland and is the only Englishman to win the European Golden Shoe, after hitting 30 Premier League goals in 1999-2000.

"You know, when you speak to them, they're buzzing, and they deserve it, you know, because they stick through thick and thin. They turn up, there was 30,000 here when they were in League One, every home game, and so for them to experience success as well, and now European football, wow. Shame we couldn't have given it to them 20-odd years ago, but I'm so pleased for the fans."

Source: Sunderland Echo