Tommy Watson: From outcast to eternal Black Cats hero

What is also remarkable is that in the first home game at the Stadium of Light last month after the deal was announced, Watson was booed by some fans in light of his pending move to the south coast.

Former Black Cats striker Marco Gabbiadini described that response as “brainless”, but there is no doubt that Watson has had the last laugh in a way that nobody will ever forget.

In his 22nd and final game for the club and with only his third goal – the two others came against Stoke City in December – Watson delivered in the grandest manner.

For head coach Regis Le Bris, the key thing was that the squad had no issue with Watson still being involved in these crucial last few weeks.

“It was probably a tough decision for him, but it was clear in our mind and his mind that he was still a player of Sunderland,” Le Bris said.

“The group, the squad accepted this decision as well, knowing that he is a good player and that he can help and we don’t know what can happen and he had his opportunity this afternoon.”