Sunderland relegated from the Premier League after 10 consecutive seasons

The Black Cats defeat to Bournemouth at the Stadium of Light, along with Hull's 0-0 draw with Southampton, means Sunderland will play in the Championship next season.

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Former defender Gary Bennett: Sunderland "need to get that relationship back with the supporters"

Former Sunderland player Gary Bennett in action for the Black Cats Credit: Paul Marriott/EMPICS Sport

The former Sunderland defender Gary Bennett believes the Black Cats need to "plan ahead" for a season in the Championship.

Bournemouth's 1-0 win at the Stadium of Light condemned David Moyes' side to relegation after 10 seasons in the Premier League.

Very, very sad. Nobody likes to get relegated.

"Frustration does turn into anger and it's something which has been building up right throughout the season."

– Gary Bennett, former Sunderland defender
  • Watch more from Gary Bennett below:

Chairman Ellis Short left "frustrated" by Sunderland's relegation

Sunderland chairman Ellis Short Credit: PA

The Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short has released a statement following the Black Cats relegation to the Championship.

It reads:

Like any supporter, my initial reaction is one of sadness, disappointment, anger and frustration. After 10 consecutive seasons as a top-flight club, the second longest in our 138-year history, it is hard for everyone to take.

“It is an especially cruel blow for our supporters, who have shown tremendous faith in the club. They backed the team, home and away, in huge numbers throughout the season and it is fair to say this season they have once again been relentless in their support. I am truly sorry that we have not been able to retain our top-flight status for them.

“I acknowledge that during my ownership mistakes have been made, particularly in the area of player recruitment, and as a result we have found ourselves struggling to survive in recent seasons. We had massive disruption during the summer transfer window and an unprecedented number of injuries throughout the season. These are difficulties which we have been unable to overcome and we are paying the price for that now.

“We need to improve, both on and off the field, and despite the bitter disappointment of today there is a strong determination to do so throughout the club.There is significant work to be done over the summer and when the season is concluded, we intend to share our plans to move forward with our supporters”.

– Ellis Short, Sunderland AFC Chairman

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