Trai Hume: From Linfield to Premier League Leader — How International Duty Shaped Sunderland’s Rising Star

Sunderland’s Premier League resurgence has been marked by grit, growth, and a few standout stories — none more compelling than that of defender Trai Hume. The 23-year-old has not only helped guide the Black Cats from League One back to the top flight, but now finds himself captaining Northern Ireland in their World Cup qualifying campaign. And according to Hume, it’s his international experience that’s helped him thrive at the highest level.

🌍 International Experience: A Crucial Stepping Stone

Hume made his Northern Ireland debut just two months after joining Sunderland from Linfield in January 2022. That early exposure to elite competition, he says, was instrumental in preparing him for the demands of Premier League football.

“It probably has helped me in a way to get used to the top players, that top level and how concentrated you have to be in the game for the whole 90 minutes,” Hume explained.

Now a fixture in Sunderland’s starting XI, having played all three of their opening Premier League matches this season, Hume is relishing the opportunity to test himself against the best.

“I’ve always said I wanted to test myself at the highest level so getting the chance to do that this season is a dream come true.”

📝 Loyalty Over Lucrative Offers

After helping Sunderland secure promotion via the play-offs, Hume attracted interest from clubs across England and Europe. But in August, he put pen to paper on a new long-term deal, reaffirming his commitment to the club that gave him his break.

“Ever since I signed for the club in League One I’ve loved every second of it,” he said. “It does feel that wee bit better that you’ve helped Sunderland from where they were in League One, the whole way up to where we belong.”

While the Premier League spotlight could have come via a transfer, Hume emphasized the emotional significance of climbing the ladder with Sunderland.

“Obviously you can sign for a Premier League club and it’s still the same thing, you’re still getting to play in the Premier League, but it does bring that extra bit of emotion into it that you’ve done it the whole way through.”

🇳🇮 Leading Northern Ireland Into World Cup Qualifiers

Hume’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed. Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has handed him the captain’s armband for September’s World Cup qualifiers against Luxembourg and Germany — a testament to his maturity and influence.

“I’m really proud and happy to do it, but I’ve always said that when I wear the armband it doesn’t really change much for me,” said Hume. “I’ll obviously try my best to do the job at hand and help my team-mates.”

Northern Ireland face a tricky opener in Luxembourg, a side they drew 2-2 with in last year’s Nations League despite leading by two goals. Hume is under no illusions about the challenge ahead.

“We’ve played them twice very recently in the Nations League and we know it won’t be an easy game. We’re fully focused and prepared for it.”

🔴 Black Cats and Green Shirts: A Season of Opportunity

With Sunderland aiming to solidify their Premier League status and Northern Ireland embarking on a crucial qualifying campaign, Hume stands at the intersection of club and country — a player whose journey from Belfast to the big stage is inspiring fans on both sides of the Irish Sea.

As he continues to grow into his role as a leader and top-flight defender, one thing is clear: Trai Hume isn’t just adapting to the Premier League — he’s helping shape its future.