Niall Quinn, Roy Keane and some of the squad have spoken today about how it feels for SAFC to have been promoted this afternoon without kicking a ball.
Quinny had travelled to Ireland after Friday night’s 3-2 victory over Burnley and said, “It shows you that when people put their mind to it and work as a team, you are capable of doing anything. I’m trying to take this in and enjoy it but I’m also thinking about going forward, and the people of this city have to realise the role they play. I’ll celebrate with a bottle of champagne tonight with my wife and family”.
The chairman also spoke of how amazed he was of Keane’s ability to transform the team in such a short space of time. “We felt we would have to nurse him along, put structures in place and give him every opportunity to develop and learn his trade. But lo and behold he has astonished everyone and done it in record time.”
Roy Keane had been informed of Palace’s win by text message whilst out walking his dog this afternoon. The boss said, “I’m delighted for the players who have done a fantastic job. I’m delighted for the staff who have played a vital part, the fans who have been tremendous in their support for the team, and for Niall and the board who have been a great support since I arrived.”
Skipper Dean Whitehead said “We’re all delighted – a few of the lads will be meeting up to have a few beers, I bet Sunderland will be rocking tonight!”
Jonny Evans had watched the Palace game in a bar in Durham and said “I’m still shaking with the adrenalin. Me and Danny Simpson were saying how brilliant the fans are here – they have really appreciated us and I’m so pleased for them”.
And Carlos Edwards, whose wonder goal sealed Friday’s victory, had watched the game at a barbecue with friends and said “Roy Keane being in charge has given us that extra drive – we want the winners’ medals as well!”
There will be a press conference at the Academy of Light at 3pm tomorrow (Monday 30 April) for the manager and chairman to talk to the media.