Sunderland director delivers upbeat verdict on Black Cats' season after play-off defeat

Non-executive Sunderland director Dave Jones was quick to react to the Black Cats' play-off exit on Tuesday night.

The Wearsiders lost 2-0 to Luton Town in the play-off semi-final second-leg at Kenilworth Road meaning Sunderland's 2-1 first-leg advantage was overturned on aggregate.

The visitors fell a goal down inside 10 minutes when Hatters defender Gabriel Osho converted from close range following a corner.

Sunderland rallied during a challenging first half but conceded again two minutes before the interval when Tom Lockyer headed home Alfie Doughty’s cross.

With Sunderland's season now over, talk has turned towards the future of head coach Tony Mowbray following his comments after the game.

But despite the loss against Luton Town over two legs, Sunderland have still had a good season according to non-executive director and Sky Sports presenter Jones.

Taking to social media after the game, he said: "Tough night but overall it's been such an enjoyable season watching this talented young team flourish. This is just the start of the journey for this team and not the end of the road."