Gary Neville has highlighted Sunderland’s impressive Premier League start, praising Regis Le Bris’ side for their competitive edge and positive style of play. The former Manchester United defender used his Sky Sports podcast to commend the newly-promoted club, who earned their first away victory of the season with a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest.
'It's brilliant' - Gary Neville's Sunderland special mention after Forest success — captures the tone of Neville’s comments. Sunderland, back in the Premier League after a long absence, are making waves in the top flight, sitting fifth in the table after six games with three wins, two draws and just one defeat.
‘It’s brilliant’ – Gary Neville’s Sunderland special mention after Forest success
Saturday evening’s triumph came courtesy of Omar Alderete’s first-half header, sealing a third win of the campaign. Neville believes Sunderland’s performances prove the Premier League is stronger when promoted clubs arrive with ambition and resilience.
“I haven’t seen them live yet but Monday Night Football after the first weekend of the season, they had played West Ham at home and sometimes you just like what you see,” Neville said. “They’re defending for large parts of the game but then they sprint forward, they’re putting balls into the box. They play with intent, positivity. They’ve got a physicality about them. I really like what I’ve seen. It’s brilliant what they’ve done.”
“It’s brilliant what they’ve done and we need to see teams who come up from the Championship do well.” — Gary Neville, Sky Sports podcast
Sunderland’s bright Premier League start
Neville stressed the importance of sustainable competitiveness for newly-promoted sides, pointing to Leeds and Burnley as examples of clubs who fought to make an impact. “It’s a big part of the Premier League and teams need to be given encouragement without bankrupting themselves,” he added.
Sunderland’s tally of three wins, including against Forest, has reinforced belief they can survive and thrive this season. Their energetic approach under Le Bris has been praised by pundits and fans alike.
Sunderland 2025/26 Premier League record so far
| Stat (2025/26) | Sunderland |
|---|---|
| Games played | 6 |
| Wins | 3 |
| Draws | 2 |
| Losses | 1 |
| League position | 5th |
source: Premier League table – 29 September 2025
The numbers highlight how effectively Sunderland have adjusted to life in the top flight, collecting 11 points from their opening fixtures.
Analyst verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Sunderland’s early-season form shows they are not in the league to merely survive. “Le Bris has built a team with balance — they’re organised defensively, but when they attack, they do it with real intent. Neville is right: this is what the Premier League needs from promoted clubs. Sunderland look like they belong.”
He added: “Sustaining this level over 38 games will be tough, but their energy, tactical clarity and fan backing suggest they are better equipped than many expected.”
Key insights
- Sunderland beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 for their first away win of the season.
- Gary Neville praised their intent, positivity and physicality.
- Sunderland sit 5th in the table with 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss.
- Omar Alderete scored the winner at the City Ground.
- Regis Le Bris has been praised for instilling belief and structure.
What’s next for Sunderland?
Sunderland’s next Premier League outing will test their resilience as they face Manchester United side. With momentum building, another positive result would cement their place in the upper reaches of the table.
For now, the message is clear: Sunderland are no pushovers. With Neville’s “special mention” ringing in their ears, the Black Cats can take confidence that they are finally back where they belong — making an impact in the Premier League.
👉 Can Sunderland maintain their top-half position across the full season, or will the demands of the Premier League catch up with them?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 30 Sep 2025 11:30
Ive seen the game against Forest, just after they scored the 0-1. They're very organized and never was in doubt that Forest where going too score and not to mention their GK is unbelievable.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *