Sunderland defender Trai Hume has revealed how early setbacks in his career motivated him to succeed, taking him from the Irish Premiership to the English Premier League in just four years.

The 23-year-old Northern Ireland international, who has played 21 Premier League games this season, admitted he initially struggled to secure a move to an academy side in England or Scotland, beginning his senior career with Ballymena United and later Linfield.

“Obviously I wasn’t happy that I didn’t get to go across at 16, I was disappointed and angry in a way, but I wanted to prove I am good enough to play at whatever level,” Hume told BBC Sport NI.

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Early Career and Development

Hume made his Linfield debut at 17, gaining crucial first-team experience. Mentorship from David Healy and opportunities from David Jeffrey at Ballymena helped him build confidence and readiness for a move abroad.

“When I made my debut for Linfield, I thought I was ready. That experience gave me the confidence I could play in England, and when I got my chance at Sunderland, I thought I could play at this level.”

Hume joined Sunderland in January 2022, when the club was in League One, and contributed to their rise through the divisions, achieving two promotions and establishing himself as a Premier League starter.

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Northern Ireland Player of the Year

Named Northern Ireland Player of the Year 2025, Hume highlighted the advantages of gaining first-team experience in the Irish Premiership versus joining an academy at 16:

“If you stay in the Irish league, you achieve first-team football quicker and get yourself established. Going across at 16, you could get stuck between the first team and under-21s. Every pathway is different—it depends on personality, attitude, and belief.”

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Personal Highlights

Among Sunderland’s impressive fixtures this season—including draws against Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal—Hume cites the 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as a personal highlight, having supported the west London club as a child.

“Dan [Ballard] and I stood beside each other and couldn’t believe we actually beat the team we supported growing up. My family were there, and my granda was in the Chelsea end. That’s one of the moments I soaked in.”

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Looking Ahead

Hume’s journey from Ballymena and Linfield to Premier League football reflects resilience, determination, and belief in his ability to succeed. With Sunderland competing strongly in the top flight, Hume aims to continue his development and inspire the next generation of Northern Irish talent.