Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris labelled the Black Cats' strong character and togetherness as the reason why they were able to secure a long-awaited return to the Premier League.

Dreams were realised on Wearside and in the West End of Wembley as Sunderland ended their eight-year absence from the top-flight thanks to a 95th-minute winner from 19-year-old Tommy Watson.

The Black Cats had a poor first half, with Sheffield United looking the dominant side and taking the lead. But they didn't give up without a fight, and as soon as Eliezer Mayenda fired a stunner into the top corner, momentum was with them.

But it was Watson's stride forward and thumping finish, after collecting a misplaced Keiffer Moore pass, that sent the Sunderland end into raptures.

While it was very much Watson's moment, his manager Le Bris was quick to emphasise the collective effort of every one of his players throughout the 46-game season.

"We showed a strong character, and even when we struggled, we stayed connected and well-planned," he declared

"And we found an important moment to change the momentum later in the game. We need talented players, but also a strong connection between them.

"They work so well together, and this game is a great example of the season as a whole.

"The connection with players is more important than the quality of one player. We forget that this is a collective sport; we tend to focus on one talent, but that's not the main point. It's about working together."

The prospect of Premier League football will bring its challenges, but it's what these sets of supporters have longed for, and they are memories that Le Bris highlighted as extremely important.

The Frenchman added: "To create this connection, emotion and memories with the fans are really important. Emotionally, the fans are impressive, the two Semi-Finals were absolutely crazy, and today was the same.

The 49-year-old coach, who has achieved the ultimate goal in his debut season at the Stadium of Light, insisted now was the time to celebrate, before preparing to make the step up next season.

"We're still building the structure, and we have to make another step to prepare for the Premier League, and I hope that we can make that," he revealed.

He hasn't even had a chance to think about the prospect of managing in the top-flight himself, adding: "I've been so focused on the moment and winning this game, so I haven't had a chance to think about the Premier League.

"Let's enjoy, let's celebrate and spend time with family and friends. I will spend a bit of time in France after 11 months here and enjoy before we prepare for next season."