Haji Hat-Trick

Wright's Hat-Trick Powers Coventry to Crucial Win Over Sunderland

Haji Wright announced his return to form with a brilliant hat-trick as Coventry City moved back into the Championship playoff positions with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over promotion rivals Sunderland at the CBS Arena on Saturday.

Wright, who had been sidelined for nearly four months with an ankle injury sustained during Coventry's previous meeting with Sunderland in November, delivered a masterclass in finishing to notch his first hat-trick in English football.

The American striker opened the scoring after 21 minutes when he received a pass from Victor Torp, cut inside defender Luke O'Nien, and drilled a low, left-footed strike beyond goalkeeper Anthony Patterson from outside the box. Just nine minutes later, Wright doubled Coventry's advantage from the penalty spot after being brought down by Wales international Chris Mepham.

He completed his hat-trick in the 73rd minute with an exquisite dinked finish over the onrushing Patterson following another precise pass from Torp, sending the home crowd into raptures and earning himself a standing ovation when substituted late in the game.

"I felt great today. After being out for so long, I felt quick; I felt fresh and light on my feet," Wright told club media after the match.

Frank Lampard, who has overseen an impressive run of form since taking over as Coventry head coach in November, praised his striker.

"He’s been out for a while and had a few substitute appearances and a difficult game against Derby, as it was for everyone, but today was an outstanding individual performance," Lampard said. "I know he is a big player for us, so to see it in the flesh and be that clinical at the top end of the pitch, to have success you want those players at the top end of the pitch, so to have that confidence and to be able to play the way he played was brilliant."

The victory extends Sunderland's 40-year winless run at Coventry and moves the Sky Blues back into fifth place with eight games remaining in their playoff push. Despite missing much of the season through injury, Wright has scored 10 goals in 19 Championship appearances this term.

Though he won't be at the Nations League this week, Wright's performance comes at an opportune time for his international prospects. Mauricio Pochettino faces a shortage of fit forwards ahead of next year's home World Cup.