Sunderland AFC fans react to the team qualifying for the Papa Johns' Trophy Final

Sunderland fans were celebrating from their homes last night, Wednesday, February 17 as Lee Johnson’s side qualified for the final of the Papa John’s Trophy on penalties.

Fans were not able to attend the semi-final due to coronavirus restrictions but they still shared their excitement of making the Wembley final at Roker today – here’s what they said.

Daniel Lawless, 10 said: “I’m so excited and I hope we win this time because I went last time we were at Wembley and we lost so I hope we win this time.

"I just wish I could be there again this year because I think we have a good chance of winning. I was really nervous when the penalties took place, I was excited but really scared at the same time.”

The club made the cup final in 2019 but lost against Portsmouth – fans are hoping it will be different this time round.

Arthur Butler, 61 and Richard Lodge, 62 said last night’s win is fantastic for the city club.

Richard said: “It’s fantastic news, the manager is a lovely lad and if Sunderland can have little bit of success, the fan base is there so it would be great to win.”

Arthur added: “It’s nice to get there again but it’s just a shame there probably won’t be any supporters there and that’s the whole point of getting to the final to have thousands of people from your home city enjoying it.

The news comes after 24-year-old Kyril Louis-Dreyfus purchased a majority stake in Sunderland AFC.

Norman Walsh, 77 said: “It’s just a bit disappointing that the supporters can’t go, my grandson went last time and was really looking forward to going again.

"I love to see them doing well, I’m over the moon for them.”

Sunderland fan Gemma Younghusband is rooting for her home team and thinks they can win the cup this year.

Gemma, 37 said: “This is what the community and the area needs right now, it’s a big boost for the people of Sunderland and it’s really exciting.

"They are working so much better as a team so hopefully this is our time and we win it.”

Support your Echo and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on SAFC and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.