Sunderland’s decision to sell Josh Maja to Bordeaux last January has become a talking point again following the release of ‘Sunderland ‘Til I Die 2’.  

Maja had scored 15 goals in only 24 League One appearances at the start of last season, with the striker spearheading Jack Ross’ side’s push for a Championship return.

Yet, he left in January after seeing his contract situation come to a head, with Bordeaux his destination.

Recently, Maja has been discussing his decision to leave the Stadium of Light at the start of 2019, revealing he continued to look over how the club fared and how he still has a case of ‘what if’ about his exit, after Sunderland featured twice at Wembley following his departure.

"I followed it until the end and I watched the play-off final,” Maja told The Chronicle.

"It was a sad feeling of how they lost that game and the circumstances of losing that game were disappointing after how far they had come. 

"I am sure as a club they will bounce back this year and get into the Championship.

"It would have been nice to play at Wembley and help the team win promotion but that was not how it went down.

"There will always be that thought in my head of 'what if' but I was just focused on what I was doing at Bordeaux. 

"I will always wish them the best." 

After Maja’s exit, Sunderland were beaten by Portsmouth in the EFL Trophy final at Wembley, before Ross’ side once again suffered heartbreak at the national stadium, losing 2-1 to Charlton Athletic in the play-off final.

Quiz: Are these 18 Sunderland facts true or false?

The Verdict

Most footballers are left feeling a case of ‘what if’ following an exit, with Sunderland’s appearances at Wembley sure to only add to that element of regret with Maja.

He will have watched the EFL Trophy and play-off final wondering whether he might’ve been able to put away a crucial chance, or impact the game in another way.

It’s a natural feeling and credit to Maja, who has come out and put his feelings there for everyone to see.

Thoughts? Let us know!