TRAI HUME claims winning promotion has to be Sunderland’s sole ambition next season, and is confident the Black Cats can maintain the upward trajectory that took them into the top six last term.

Hume committed his long-term future to Wearside last week when he penned a new contract that ties him to the Stadium of Light until the summer of 2027, with Sunderland also having the option of extending the deal by a further 12 months.

The 21-year-old was a key part of Sunderland’s success last season, playing at both right-back and centre-half as Tony Mowbray’s side forced their way into the play-offs.

Hume scored his first senior goal in the first leg of the semi-final against Luton Town, and while the Black Cats were beaten in the second leg at Kenilworth Road, with Luton going on to claim a place in the Premier League, the Northern Irishman was delighted with the rate of both his and his side’s progress last season.

“The start of the season – last year – I wasn’t really playing much,” said Hume. “I was on the bench and in and out of the team. I wasn’t playing as much as I wanted to, but come Christmas time, there were a few injuries and I got my chance.

“I took my chance last year, and took it with both hands. I played basically every game from Christmas onwards, and this new contract shows what the staff and the club think of me.

“It’s a good thing, and I’m here to stay at the minute. They’ve tied me down for another year now, and that takes me through to 2027 I think, so I’m going to be here for a long time. I’m still young, fit and looking to play games.

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“Hopefully, play next year and play with new team-mates, the team-mates from last year, and hopefully it’s going to be a good season like last year.”

Hume started last season on the periphery of things under former boss Alex Neil, but his fortunes changed once he forced his way into the first team under Mowbray in late December.

He started all bar one league game from the start of January onwards, and while he established himself as Sunderland’s first-choice right-back, he also showcased his versatility by slotting in at centre-half in the final few matches.

He is hoping to kick on again next season, and accepts that after making the top six, the Black Cats’ collective ambition as a team has to be a place in the Premier League.

“The season we had last year was a good season for everyone,” added Hume, in an interview with Sunderland’s official website. “Obviously, we didn’t get what we wanted in the end, getting beat in the play-offs, but it was a good season personally for me.

“It was a good season for all the players, all the season and the club. We’re going into next season excited and trying to do that again, but try and get promoted. We join up on the 26th for pre-season, and hopefully all the lads are fit, ready and go into the season and try to get promoted.”

While Hume is remaining with Sunderland, his fellow defender, Bailey Wright, is set to leave the club as he heads into the final year of his contract.

The Australian spent the second half of last season on loan at Rotherham United, and while his opportunities were limited because of injury, the Millers are keen to sign him on a permanent deal.