Sunderland owner Stewart Donald has apologised to the 'unbelievable' Black Cats supporters following Sunday's penalty shootout defeat in the Checkatrade Trophy final.
Over 40,000 Sunderland fans packed into Wembley Stadium on Sunday, as Lee Cattermole's saved spot-kick handed Portsmouth the Checkatrade Trophy.
Sunderland had taken the lead through a brilliant Aiden McGeady free-kick but Portsmouth forced extra time through Nathan Thompson's header.
Jamal Lowe put Pompey ahead in extra-time but another moment of brilliance from McGeady forced an equaliser and penalties.
Unfortunately, Sunderland fell short for the sixth successive time at Wembley Stadium and the focus has now returned to the end of season promotion push.
The red-and-white army travelled in numbers to the capital as Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden became a sea of red-and-white.
Donald, alongside Sunderland directors Charlie Methven and Juan Sartori, joined the fans on the streets to help create a carnival atmosphere the night before the final.
And on Monday afternoon, Donald took to Twitter to thank the fans for their 'unbelievable' support, claiming 'no fans are more deserving of success'.
"Sorry to the @SunderlandAFC fans for not quite being able to win at the weekend.
"Your support was unbelievable & no fans are more deserving of success so I am gutted we could not deliver for you. (The) Players gave their all and (I) am immensely proud of them. We go again. Stick with us."
Donald also congratulated Portsmouth on their success.
"Congratulations to everyone at @officialpompey for yesterday's win.
"Gutting for us to lose but it was a great game and you played very well with great backing from the fans.
"See you all later in the month. Congratulations again."
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