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They have come in their thousands, all with one hope in their heart. Sunderland's day of destiny at Wembley has brought more than 45,000 Black Cats fans to London from the North East - and they weren't about the let the occasion pass without a celebration.

Sunderland supporters packed out Trafalagar Square in the now traditional pre-match party in the capital. The late May evening air resounded with chants of the red-and-white faithful in what was a good-natured show of support.

It was a very different scene to the last time the Wearsiders came to Wembley, with travel restrictions during Covid meaning no Sunderland fans could attend the Papa John's Trophy win over Tranmere Rovers in 2021.

Of course fans will be hoping for the same outcome this year, with a place in the Championship on offer for the winners. Sunderland have spent four long seasons in League One, and are desperate to take this chance after missing out in the 2019 final to Charlton, and then losing to Lincoln in the semi-finals last season.

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