BARDO ON PL LIFE

Phil Bardsley is excited to have us back in the Premier League, but speaking from experience he has warned everyone about how tough it is. He also touches on the play-off final, where Bardo admits he missed Tommy Watson's winner! The fullback was speaking exclusively to SportsBoom.

GOOD TO BE BACK

“It’s incredible for them to be back in the Premier League, they’re back where they deserve to be.”

MISSED WATSON'S WINNER

“I watched the play-off final when I was on holiday in Dubai, but I actually missed the winning goal. I thought I’d get back to the hotel for extra-time and then Tommy Watson scored the winning goal. Incredible hey? But I’m just really glad they’re back in the Prem, they deserve it.""

BIG CHALLENGE

“Sunderland is a huge club with a great fanbase, but it’s a big challenge now for them being back in the Premier League. Over the last few years, they’ve been used to winning in the Championship and they’ve created a good squad and a good environment, but this is doing to be a different ask. They need to recruit in the right areas, and Premier League experience will be vital for them."

HENDO

“I think Jordan Henderson would have been a good fit for them for where they’re currently at, adding that experience. But they’ve got a young, youthful squad, so hopefully they’ll give it a good go this season. However, there’s no doubt it’s going to be challenging for sure.”

GIVE IT A GOOD GO

“The 40,000 plus fans will be there week-in, week-out, playing in front of them was amazing. They’ve also got a great travelling support as well, but you know, the home games are where you need to maximise your points. When you’re on the road it’s difficult. There’s a massive gulf in quality from the Premier League and the Championship, especially in terms of the money the club get and what they can do with recruitment. It’s a tough journey in the Premier League, but I hope they show what they’re made of this season and give it a really good go."