Carlos Edwards has his heart set on helping the Blues win promotion to the Premier League - but it won’t beat the thrill of playing in the World Cup finals.
He’s frustrated at missing the spectacle in South Africa this summer after playing in all three Trinidad and Tobago matches in the 2006 finals in Germany.
“I’ve been asked what was best - playing at a World Cup finals or getting promoted to the Premier League with Sunderland,” said Edwards.
“For me, it has to be playing in the World Cup - you can’t beat that.
“Some of the best players in the world have never graced that competition.
“I can say I have and you can’t get better than that feeling.
“No-one can ever take that from me.
“I’ll take the memories to my grave - it was one of the best feelings ever.”
With Trinidad being knocked out in the qualifying stages this time around, Edwards will still be taking a big interest – although frustrated at having to do so.
He went on: “I’ll be glued to the television.
“I’m getting married on May 30 and having a honeymoon in Barbados but football is my big passion and I’m really looking forward to watching as many games as possible.
“I’m proud of my achievements in Germany and would have loved to try and do it again in South Africa.
“But it wasn’t to be. That’s a huge disappointment for me but at least I can say I was there in 2006.
“Being involved was the highlight of my career - the cherry on the cake.
The Ipswich pacy wide man played every minute of all three group games in Germany, against Sweden, England and Paraguay.
They failed to get past the opening round but Edwards emerged with much praise for his performance in the Sweden game.
He was asked to fill in at right-back and came up against Freddie Ljungberg.
“Thankfully, I did well and had a very good game,” said the 31-year-old.
“I had him in my pocket, nullifying his threat down my side, and got lots of praise afterwards.”
Edwards will be keeping a close eye on his adopted country England.
He believes Fabio Capello’s men can go all the way - as long as they don’t rely too heavily on Wayne Rooney.
“England can go all the way to the final, if they focus and put the negative vibes behind them,” said Edwards.
“They’ve got to work as a unit and not just rely on one individual (Rooney), even if that person can win or lose them the World Cup.”