Granit Xhaka's emotional and exciting pledge to Sunderland fans on the Stadium of Light pitch after Chelsea win
Sunderland will play in the Europa League next season after a stunning win over Chelsea on final day
Granit Xhaka told Sunderland fans that qualifying for the Europa League is just the beginning in an emotional speech on the Stadium of Light pitch.
A capacity crowd stayed in ground for a post-match lap of appreciation after the Black Cats secured a remarkable seventh-place finish in the Premier League by beating Chelsea 2-1 on final day.
Xhaka addressed the crowd and said the squad were determined to bring more success to Wearside. As fans sang his name, Xhaka said: "OK guys, give me just two minutes please!
"First of all, thank you to the owner, thank you to Flo and thank you to the coach. I want to say thank you because what they did with this team, with this football club, players, staff... everyone in the club is unbelievable. Massive thank you as well to you guys, without your support at home and away this is not possible. I can promise you from my side as captain of the football club, this is just the beginning and we want more.
"Enjoy this together, enjoy the moment, and we will see you soon."
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
RLB’s message for Sunderland fans after Chelsea win
Head coach Régis Le Bris also addressed the crowd and thanked fans for their support over the course of the campaign.
"Thank you to all of our fans. One year ago we were at Wembley, do you remember? The 24th of May is a special day. Thanks to you because your support has been impressive this season, it was the case last season and even better this season - thank you for that. Thank you for our owners, our head of football and our staff behind the scenes for working so hard and they are part of this success as well. Enjoy. It's a massive achievement for our players, they worked so hard and we can proud of them. Enjoy your summer, we'll need you next season.. even better than this season! Thank you all."