Lynden Gooch returns to the Stadium of Light for the first time as an opposition player this weekend.
This coming Saturday will mark Lynden Gooch’s first visit to the Stadium of Light as an opponent following his summer transfer departure to Stoke City.
The American became a member of the team at an early age and progressed through the Academy of Light system before facing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the Premier League. There would be two relegations in as many seasons.
During the bleak days of League One, Gooch stayed on Wearside and scored the winning goal in Sunderland’s Papa John’s Trophy victory over Tranmere Rovers, helping the team win its first Wembley title since 1973. Sunderland then defeated Wycombe Wanderers in the play-off final to send the cubs back to the Championship.
Prior to Sunderland’s match against Stoke City, Gooch stated, “Promotion was a big one after the struggles going down from the Premier League and then the Championship as well, which was really tough.” I’m happy that I persisted and was able to assist the team in returning to the Championship and moving in the direction they desired.
“Having gone through the academy, I was really proud of myself when I scored a goal in a cup final at Wembley—it was my first goal since 1973. That was a wonderful event because my kids were born in Sunderland and my partner’s family is also from there.
Gooch, who was a young player in the top division, is now eager to rejoin Stoke City in the Premier League after departing Sunderland during the summer transfer window.
“That’s a memory you’ll hold for anyone who gets promoted from any league,” he remarked. You want to hold onto that emotion. Returning to the Premier League is what I desire. My brief tenure there as a young player just starting out at Sunderland was somewhat shortened by a serious ankle injury I sustained during that season.
“I know Stoke wants to go back there, too, and I’m desperate to go back there. That is our desired location. The players’ abilities are evident, and the infrastructure and our investment strategy are in place; the only question is whether we can consistently provide the desired outcomes. It’s an extremely challenging league, and consistency is key.”
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