Exclusive: Sunderland’s Return Makes Premier League a Better Place, says Phil Bardsley

Former Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley believes the Premier League is a better place with the Black Cats back in the big time.

The Tyne and Wear club toasted sweet success last season by winning promotion back to the top -light after an eight-year absence.

And they kicked off their Premier League return in style with a 3-0 demolition of West Ham at the Stadium of Light on Saturday on the opening weekend of the new season.

Second-half goals from Eliezer Mayenda, Dan Ballard and Wilson Isidor did the damage as Regis Le Bris’ on-song team dazzled to delight their army of loyal supporters and give welcome early hope they belong in the top tier. 

“It’s incredible for them to be back in the Premier League, they’re back where they deserve to be,” revealed Bardsley, speaking exclusively to SportsBoom.com. 

“I watched the play-off final when I was on holiday in Dubai, but I actually missed the winning goal."

“I thought I’d get back to the hotel for extra-time and then Tommy Watson scored the winning goal. Incredible hey? But I’m just really glad they’re back in the Prem, they deserve it."

GREAT FANBASE

“Sunderland is a huge club with a great fanbase, but it’s a big challenge now for them being back in the Premier League."

“Over the last few years they’ve been used to winning in the Championship and they’ve created a good squad and a good environment, but this is doing to be a different ask."

“They need to recruit in the right areas, and Premier League experience will be vital for them."

“I think Jordan Henderson would have been a good fit for them for where they’re currently at, adding that experience."

“But they’ve got a young, youthful squad, so hopefully they’ll give it a good go this season."

“However, there’s no doubt it’s going to be challenging for sure.”

Sunderland sold star player Jobe Bellingham to German giants Borussia Dortmund in the current transfer window and also saw top talent Tommy Watson join Premier League Brighton and Hove Albion.

But Belgium boss Le Bris has recruited well during the summer with no fewer than 12 new signings for what promises to be an intriguing return to the English top tier.

Paris Saint-Germain defender Nordi Mukiele is the latest recruit, having joined on a four-year deal from last season’s Champions League winners.

12 NEW SIGNINGS

The versatile defender joins signings Habib Diarra, Granit Xhaha, Simon Adringa, Chemsdine Tabli, Enzo Le Fee, Noah Sadiki, Marc Guiu, Omar Alderete, Robin Roefs, Reinildo and Arthur Masuaku through the door of the newly-promoted club.

Bardsley, who enjoyed a distinguished Premier League career and who played 174 Premier League games for the club between for Sunderland from January 2008 to June 2104 – added: "The best chance they’ve got to being successful this season is to do well at home, because they’re got a superb following,” added Bardsley.

“The 40,000 plus fans will be there week-in, week-out, playing in front of them was amazing."

“They’ve also got a great travelling support as well, but you know, the home games are where you need to maximise your points. When you’re on the road it’s difficult."

“There’s a massive gulf in quality from the Premier League and the Championship, especially in terms of the money the club get and what they can do with recruitment."

“It’s a tough journey in the Premier League, but I hope they show what they’re made of this season and give it a really good go."