EXCLUSIVE: Former Sunderland and Sheffield United defender 'torn' over Wembley decider

69-year-old Mick Henderson represented both the Blades & the Black Cats in his professional career

Author: Chris Davis-SmithPublished 23rd May 2025

No matter the outcome at Wembley tomorrow - it'll be a day of 'mixed emotions' for one ex-professional footballer.

Mick Henderson began his professional career with Sunderland in the 1970's.

However, he also played for the Blades - who the Black Cats take on in the Championship play-off final tomorrow - during the 80's.

The 69-year-old has stayed in South Yorkshire since then - & now even has a season ticket at Bramall Lane.

He's been speaking to us exclusively ahead of the big match:

"I've stayed in the area and go to the home Blades matches now. I've had a season ticket at Bramall Lane for the last ten years or so.

"I do hope Sheffield United win, but I really do like Sunderland still.

"I would be really pleased for Sunderland if they won, even though my preference would be for the Blades to go up, so it's a strange one.

"I think the Blades will win 2-0. Somebody like Gus Hamer can make all the difference for Sheffield United, and Chris Wilder is a great manager.

"Sunderland have a good team though, the forwards are electric and the big lads at the back defend well, so anything could happen."

The Championship play-off final at Wembley is due to kick-off at 3pm.

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