Niall Quinn makes exciting Jordan Henderson to Sunderland claim: ‘Door is open’
Sunderland legend Niall Quinn has stated that Jordan Henderson could make a sensational return to the Stadium of Light.
The Black Cats secured promotion to the Premier League, beating Sheffield United 2-1 in the play-off final at Wembley.
Tyrece Campbell opened the scoring for the Blades in the first half, and until the 75th minute it looked as if Regis Le Bris’ side were set for another year in the Championship.
However, Eliezer Mayenda’s powerful finish levelled the scores, before 19-year-old Tommy Watson scored a 95th minute winner, to fire Sunderland to the top flight.
Henderson can return ‘anytime’
Henderson, who had been linked with Everton in recent months, currently plays his football for Ajax in the Eredivisie
Speaking live on talkSPORT, Black Cats legend Quinn hinted that a return could be on the cards for the midfielder, saying: “From the day Jordan left, and Liverpool paid £20million, there was a big wide door open for him anytime he wanted to come back.
“Wouldn’t it be something else. I think he’s been a credit to the game with his hard work and his team play, he’s a real driver. I’ve stood back and admired his career.”
Quinn spent eight years at Sunderland during his playing career, and later returned as chairman, overseeing the sale of Henderson to Liverpool in 2011.
Sunderland need experience
Football Insider Verdict
Whether or not Henderson’s potential return to the Stadium of Light becomes a reality, Sunderland must ensure that they add Premier League experience to their ranks ahead of next season.
The Black Cats finished 26 points behind both Burnley and Leeds in the Championship, so have a major task on their hands closing the gap to the other two promoted sides, let alone trying to stay up themselves.
| Position | Team | Points |
| 1 | Leeds (C) | 100 |
| 2 | Burnley (P) | 100 |
| 3 | Sheffield United | 90 |
| 4 | Sunderland (POW) | 76 |
In the past two Premier League seasons, all three sides coming up from the second tier have been relegated at the first time of asking.
However, if Regis Le Bris can bring in some players that have been there and done it in the top flight, then they will at least give themselves a chance of avoiding the drop.
Some pundits feel that Sunderland have no chance in the Premier League, but with the right recruitment then there is no reason why they can’t survive.