Leeds United are to be joined in next season’s Premier League by Sunderland, having beaten Sheffield United in the final minutes of the playoff final.
It was nice today sitting back and watching a playoff final at Wembley where Leeds’ season doesn’t ride on the outcome whatsoever.
In Sheffield United and Sunderland, both sides have shown Premier League quality this season and it was the rightful final, and Chris Wilder’s Blades will have thought they were on their way.
Sunderland secure Premier League promotion at Sheffield United’s expense with dramatic 95th-minute winner
Gustavo Hamer was one of the only players displaying any match-winning quality in the first hour of the match today, racing clear on the break a quarter of the way through to release Tyrese Campbell, whose delicate chip opened the scoring deservedly for the Blades.
However, as Wilder’s men allowed Sunderland back into the game in the second half and subs weakened the Blades’ setup, Eliezer Mayenda struck on 76 minutes to equalise.
The Black Cats then looked the side most likely to find a winner, which they did when Brighton-bound Tommy Watson rolled in a brilliant winner in the 95th minute to confirm who is joining the Whites and Burnley in the Premier League next season.
Leeds confirm 25/26 Premier League lineup with thinly-veiled Sheffield United dig
For Wilder and the Blades, it’s another season in the EFL that awaits them in 25/26, watching on as Yorkshire rivals Leeds embark on their survival quest.
In confirming the 20 squads for next season’s PL table, Leeds’ two-word announcement comes across as a fairly obvious Sheffield United taunt:
Harsh end to a superb Sheffield United season – but there’ll be no sympathy in Leeds
Our wobble in March and the beginning of April got one half of Sheffield incredibly giddy, and they absolutely got ahead of themselves with their reactions.
Now, they find themselves consigned to the wretched Championship promotion battle for another year, watching us, Sunderland and Burnley embark on an exciting journey next season.
They could well be smiling in a year’s time if the same three are relegated while they bounce back with promotion, but for now, we’ve had the last laugh after an awful lot of comments this season.
Kris Smith has been a dedicated LeedsAllOver writer and editor since the summer of 2020, stepping into the role just as Leeds United earned promotion to the Premier League under the legendary Marcelo Bielsa. Over the years, he has remained a constant voice at the heart of the club’s coverage, providing fans with breaking news, in-depth match analysis, transfer updates, and insightful commentary on the biggest talking points surrounding Elland Road.
What helps set Kris apart is also his deep personal connection to Leeds United. A season ticket holder in the South Stand for over a decade, he has experienced the full rollercoaster of emotions – from the highs of promotion and thrilling BielsaBall to the challenges of relegation scraps, ownership challenges and every chaotic day the club has to offer. This first-hand perspective allows him to blend analytical nous with the passion of a lifelong supporter, offering a unique and authentic voice in his coverage.
Whether dissecting tactical decisions, assessing player performances, or weighing in on any off-field developments, Kris approaches each topic with well-informed opinions shaped by years of matchday experiences. He isn’t afraid to voice strong viewpoints, whether positive or negative, ensuring his work resonates with fellow fans who value honest, engaged journalism.
Beyond just reporting, Kris has looked to gain strong rapport with the Leeds United community, contributing to the broader conversation with a mix of statistical insight and fan-driven sentiment. His commitment to covering the club through every high and low looks to see him solidify as a voice supporters can trust, who crave substance, credibility, and a genuine connection to the team they love.
