Evans wants to see 'brilliant' Dan lead Cats back to the top flight

DAN Neil will be hoping to join a select band on Saturday and stand alongside Northern Ireland international Corry Evans as one of the few Sunderland captains to have lifted silverware at Wembley.

- By CLIVE YOULTON Football writer

For Evans, it was a moment that not only defined a season but cemented the 34-year-old’s place in the club’s rich history.

A commanding central midfielder, Evans’ leadership and composure helped guide the club back to the Championship after four years in the third tier.

On a sun-drenched afternoon in May 2022, it was Elliot Embleton’s thunderous strike from distance that calmed the nerves and sparked belief.

Ross Stewart's cool finish later sealed a 2-0 victory over Wycombe Wanderers, sending a sea of red-and-white into euphoric celebration, both in the capital and across the globe.

Reflecting on that unforgettable League One play-off final victory, Evans speaks with pride and emotion as he recalls the sheer scale of the occasion.

"Firstly, it’s pride as a professional player - to get that chance to walk out at Wembley,” he told safc.com.

“It was my first time playing there in my career. You've got all your family and friends in the stands. It’s quite a unique thing. It’s an occasion rather than just a game.