STEWART SHOWS SUPPORT

In an in-depth interview with SAFC, Ross Stewart has reflected on his time at Sunderland and spoken about what it's like to succeed in the play-offs, as well as backing his former club to do the same this time round.

SHEFF WED FIRST LEG

“Everyone was just so excited. We were full of confidence, and we were ready to go against Sheffield Wednesday. We wanted to make sure we did the business in the home leg, which thankfully we were able to do. The atmosphere was incredible at the Stadium of Light, and the place was bouncing. It gave us so much added adrenaline.”

FIRST GOAL

“It was a funny one. I charged down the defender and thankfully got on the end of it – it felt like I was running forever before I got to the goal. I got a bit of luck with the ricochet, but thankfully I tucked the second one away and to hear the stadium erupt like that was a surreal feeling. It’s definitely one of the most important goals in my career before I scored an even more important one a couple of weeks later.”

PLAY-OFF PRESSURE

“We knew there was pressure heading into the games, but I think it was more external. Internally, there was more of a confidence. Everyone wanted the promotion, but there was a quiet confidence in the group. Scoring the late goal in the second leg showed the character within the squad and it was a brilliant night at Hillsborough. After winning the semi-final, we couldn’t wait for the final.”

WEMBLEY WINNER

“I just wanted one more chance and I felt like I could take it. Thankfully, that’s what I did and to see that ball hit the back of the net and celebrate in front of our supporters at Wembley was incredible. I’ve got unbelievable memories of that day, and without a doubt that goal against Wycombe is the most important goal in my career.”

TOGETHERNESS

“We had a great group, and the dressing room was really close. That was one of the reasons we were so confident, as we knew we could rely on each other. It was a great day for the Club, and to share it with the supporters and my teammates was an incredible feeling. I’ve got nothing but good things to say about the Club and I loved every minute of my two-and-a-half years there. That’s mainly down to the supporters, the staff and my teammates. It’s a massive Club, and definitely a lot bigger than I thought when I signed. It was a really tough decision to walk away from it, but I look back at some great memories.”

PLAY-OFFS THIS YEAR

“I’ll certainly be watching the next week or two in the Play-Offs and I wish them all the best. I hope they achieve promotion. It's a Club that should be playing in the Premier League."