The Sunderland Supporters Association end of season awards have wrapped up, and the Black Cats faithful have spoken—Granit Xhaka and Robin Roefs are the big winners of the night. BBC Radio Newcastle's Simon Pryde and former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini broke down the honors, offering insights that any fan or player can appreciate.

Gabbiadini, who knows a thing or two about picking up accolades himself, emphasized the weight of these awards. "Player of the season awards are really important," he said. "I managed to have a couple of those, and it's something I look back on with great pride. A football season is a long time, and that consistency—always having the right attitude, turning up and not letting your standards slip—is really important. Most players do that, but you have to have a bit of a standout too."

That standout this season was undoubtedly Granit Xhaka, who was named Player of the Year. Gabbiadini didn't hold back in his praise, calling the midfielder "absolutely brilliant" and expressing hope that he's "got a few more years in him." For a player who has brought both grit and guile to the pitch, it's a recognition that speaks to his impact on Sunderland's campaign.

On the younger side, Robin Roefs snagged the Young Player of the Year award, and Gabbiadini was quick to highlight the competition. "I think Chris Rigg has had an impact on the season to do what he has done in the Premier League, but Roefs obviously has played a lot more games," he noted. "Especially early in the season, he was a revelation. I think he earned the trust of his manager and the rest of the team." That kind of breakout performance is what every club hopes for from its rising stars.

From goal of the season to the full list of winners, these awards capture the spirit of a long, hard-fought campaign. Whether you're celebrating a veteran's leadership or a youngster's promise, there's something here for every Sunderland supporter to cheer about.