Sheffield United could be haunted by ‘unbelievable’ Sunderland star in play-off final, says Sky Sports pundit

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Sheffield United need to be wary of one Sunderland player in particular going into this Saturday’s clash, one pundit has warned.

Sheffield United and Sunderland face off in the Championship play-off final on May 24.

As well as joining Leeds United and Burnley in the Premier League for 2025/26, the financial benefits of winning the final are huge.

On paper, it’s probably Chris Wilder and his players who have the edge, given they managed a very impressive 90 points in the normal campaign.

However, some fans are suggesting that Sunderland are favourites to win, while the Blades have now been told one player in particular could cause them problems.

Sheffield United reminded of Eliezer Mayenda threat

Eliezer Mayenda impressed for Sunderland against Coventry, being handed a rare start up front alongside Wilson Isidor in the first leg.

It was a bold call from Regis Le Bris to switch up his system and start both forwards, but it certainly paid off.

Mayenda netted in the 2-1 win at Coventry, and Don Goodman has now highlighted the Sunderland ace as a big threat going into the final.

When discussing the attacker, he was quick to point out the ‘unbelievable problems’ he caused Sheff Utd when they lost 2-1 at the Stadium of Light on New Year’s Day.

He told Football League World: “I think there are a few Sunderland players that Sheffield United will have already experienced this season that caused them pain. Isidor is one, but I think if I could only pick one then I’d have to go for Eliezer Mayenda.

“He caused them unbelievable problems at the Stadium of Light in the 2-1 win on New Year’s Day. I know they’re both set up slightly differently from when they both played in that particular game, but nevertheless, he retains that ball-carrying attribute and the pace to hurt any defence in the Championship.

“He scored one, assisted the other as well as having one or two other chances in the play-offs against Coventry, so I’m pretty confident Sheffield United will be trying very much to stifle him.”

Sunderland move for Eliezer Mayenda was stroke of genius

Having only turned 20 this month, Mayenda clearly has a very bright future in the game.

The youngster has not been a consistent starter across 2024/25 but he’s still managed to score eight and assist five in 37 normal Championship fixtures.

His goal against Coventry was especially key, and he looks likely to play a key role in the final.

Mayenda arrived at the club in 2023 for a fee believed to be around €800,000, which now looks like a serious bargain.