Derby joy, teenage kicks and cheesy chips on Wembley Way: A-Z of Sunderland's road to Checkatrade final
By Richard Mennear
Published 30th Mar 2019, 10:10 GMT
Updated 30th Mar 2019, 10:18 GMT
The A to Z of Sunderland's Checkatrade Trophy campaign
Sunderland reached the Checkatrade Trophy final having overcome Stoke City, Carlisle United, Morecambe, Notts County, Newcastle United, Manchester City U21s and Bristol Rovers.
Here we take an alphabetical look back over the club’s Checkatrade Trophy campaign.
The 26-year-old centre-back has been a Checkatrade Trophy regular this campaign, playing the six games leading up to the semi-final win, when injury ruled him out.
The 19-year-old made a name for himself with a series of impressive displays in the competition, netting twice in five games including goals against Carlisle United and Newcastle United.
The song has become a fan favourite ever since the League Cup final against Manchester City, and supporters have been singing it loud and proud since the semi-final win at the Memorial Stadium.
Well, a derby win, of sorts. Sunderlands first team were drawn against Newcastle Uniteds U21s in the third round, the Black Cats running out 4-0 winners. To the relief of Jack Ross and the Sunderland fans in what was a no-win situation.
Its proved a frustrating season for the Sunderland academy graduate. Robson was limited to three Checkatrade Trophy appearances - including a goal against Carlisle - before injury struck.
Sunderland were strong favourites for the Checkatrade Trophy this season from the outset and theyve lived up to their billing, so far. Can they go all the way?
The academy graduate will lead Sunderland out at Wembley after all thanks to his three-game league ban not including Checkatrade grames, thanks to a change in the rules midway through.
Was handed a start against Stoke City U-21s, impressing so much that he then played against Fleetwood, Rochdale and Coventry City before injury struck. Hume is very highly rated at the Academy of Light.
Sunderland have a two-week break in fixtures leading up to the Checkatrade Trophy final after the League One fixture against Fleetwood on March 23 was postponed due to international call-ups.
Has overseen the Checkatrade Trophy this season and led the side to a Wembley final in his first season managing in England. The last time the Scot was at the old Wembley was the England v Scotland Euro 96 game.
Joined the Black Cats on loan in January, but he wont be able to play in the final against Portsmouth as he is cup-tied having played for parent club Spurs against Pompey and Oxford earlier in the season.
It might only be the Checkatrade Trophy but there will be wild scenes of celebration in the stands and back home on Wearside should Sunderland win at Wembley.
