DEVOTED Sunderland fans say they have been forced into driving to Wembley after train tickets to London sold out in a matter of minutes.
As Sunderland AFC released the first batch of tickets for the League One play-off at Wembley this morning (May 11), fans reported train tickets selling extremely quick.
It comes as the Black Cats beat Sheffield Wednesday in the semi-final this week, meaning they will now face Wycombe Wanderers at Wembley on Saturday, May 21.
Read more: Sunderland release Wembley play-off final ticket details
But as of Wednesday morning, all early morning LNER services - both standard and first class - appeared to be sold out from Newcastle to King's Cross.
Services from as early as 6.30am on May 21 are showing as sold out as those visiting the website were advised at least 26 others are currently looking for tickets.
Meanwhile, LNER services on the return leg from King's Cross to the North East were also largely sold out beyond 6.30pm on the same day.
Read more: Wycombe chairman aims Netflix insult at Sunderland
It has meant many devoted fans have opted to take alternative transport in a bid to ensure they arrive on time.
One Sunderland fan, from County Durham, has said he is making the 280-mile journey to the stadium in the car after being unable to get tickets.
He said: "I knew it would be tough getting a train on the day, but I didn’t expect them to sell out so quickly. I’ve decided to drive down to avoid the hassle.
“When I checked, the last train back to the North East after the match that wasn’t sold out was 6.30pm.
"Given that it’s a 3pm kick-off with the possibility of extra time, it’s cutting it very fine. It makes it difficult for anyone to make a day trip out of it.”
On social media, many fans requested additional services be laid on to help accommodate Sunderland's game at Wembley.
Hey Dan, the majority of our available services sold out once Wembley was announced! We're reviewing if its possible to run additionally services but no guarantee as present. ^Cameron
— London North Eastern Railway (@LNER) May 11, 2022
That prompted LNER to say it is currently "reviewing" to see if this will be possible, while admitting the majority of services had sold out as soon as it was announced.
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