Tom Burwell rallies Sunderland fans after historic Europa League qualification | OneFootball

Tom Burwell has hailed Sunderland supporters after the Black Cats clinched Europa League football, ending a 53-year wait for Europe.

Sunderland Echo reports that Régis Le Bris’ side finished seventh following a 2-1 final day win over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light, with other results also falling their way.

It crowns a remarkable ascent, from League One to Europe in four years and back in the Premier League only via the Championship play-offs. Sunderland earned promotion at Wembley 12 months ago and were widely tipped to face a relegation fight.

Burwell praised the 49,000 crowd and the wider fanbase, describing supporters as a decisive 12th man across an unforgettable week. He highlighted a second victory over Chelsea this season and said there were heroes on the pitch, in the stands and around the world as the club marches into Europe.

The final whistle sparked emotional scenes, with players, staff, supporters and members of the ownership group celebrating a landmark on Wearside.

Le Bris reflected that the achievement shows anything can be possible in football, while urging humility before a busier schedule next term. He added that the club’s structure offers a platform to keep progressing and he will avoid setting hard limits on what comes next.

Source: Sunderland Echo