Kevin Phillips paid tribute to the role of Lee Johnson after Sunderland won the play-off final today and climbed back into the Championship.
Sunderland went ahead against Wycombe at Wembley thanks to a sensational goal from Elliot Embleton, who ran from the halfway line then thumped it in from well outside the box. Ross Stewart then sealed things 10 minutes before full-time.
The result means that Sunderland will play in the Championship next season after four years in League One. While it was current manager Alex Neil who lifted the trophy, former Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips ensured that former manager Lee Johnson, who was sacked in January, got his share of credit.
READ MORE: Sunderland win promotion to the Championship
Speaking on Sky Sports, Phillips said: "Every person to a man has been outstanding since Alex took over, but I just wanted to mention Lee Johnson. Sunderland wouldn't have been in this position [if not for him].
"Lee Johnson did a fantastic job, got them to second place in the league. They decided to make a change which is fine, we accept that as football, but Alex Neil, the next manager, has to come in and finish the job off, and he did that."
Phillips also spoke about the effort shown by the players and staff throughout the season. He also predicted a tough experience in the Championship.
He said: "They’ve given everything, and ultimately if you do that with quality you get your rewards. And that’s it there in a nutshell, Alex Neil lifting the trophy and watching those lads walk up those steps, it’s an incredible feeling.
"You have to enjoy it because football’s full of ups and downs. It won’t be long now before they start a Championship campaign, which is going to be tough, so enjoy these moments when they come along."
