In the aftermath at Wembley, Alex Neil spoke about moments. 'Moments in your life, moments in your career.'
Sunderland's play-off final triumph was a moment the club's supporters will treasure, a moment to savour in the careers of the players - and head coach - who celebrated at full-time in front of a sea of jubilant fans bedecked in red and white. But not all moments occur on the pitch.
This summer also represents a moment, and it is a moment the club must seize. Sunderland must ensure that they safeguard and build upon the progress they have made during their promotion season, and in particular over the last three months since Neil took the reins.
