Sunderland had the carrot of Europe dangling at Wembley last week, but they lost the League Cup final to Man City (God bless them) and only the WINNERS can qualify.
Sunderland in Europe? WTF?
Seventh placewill be enough for Europa League qualification IF two from Arsenal, Manchester City and Everton contest the FA Cup final.
But the Magpies’ antipathy towards Uefa’s second-tier competition is well known.
Alan Pardew doesn't want it ... the fans (and the players) do.
But fringe players have missed out this season because the club has missed the 14 European fixtures they had the luxury of last campaign.
No matter what Pardew believes, those players gained valuable experience in those games.
However, Pardew’s experimental approach to the run-in could open the door for other youngsters.
After returning from injury for the under-21s at Blackburn Rovers on Monday, Gael Bigirimana is hoping to be another beneficiary.
Gael Bigirimana: “I’m just trying to ease my way back to my fitness levels and it was a good run-out.
“Last year, I did myself some justice and everybody saw what I can do. Sometimes you’ve just got to be patient and wait for another door to open.”