Sunderland AFC will continue the long-standing tradition of observing a period of silence at the last home game of the calendar year, in memory of supporters, former players and club officials who have passed away.
The period of silence will take place just prior to kick-off as the Black Cats welcome Bolton Wanderers FC to the Stadium of Light on Boxing Day (Saturday 26 December, 3pm). Both clubs will come together to remember supporters who are no longer with us and pay tribute to former Black Cats stars who passed away in 2019.
This year the Sunderland family has lost former players Nigel Saddington, Willie McPheat, Ivor Broadis, Geoff Toseland, Harry Hood, John Dillon, Martin Harvey and most recently, Billy Hughes. We also sadly lost former coach Ian Ross, assistant and caretaker manager Ian MacFarlane and human resources manager, Mandy Goulden.
The silence also gives us the opportunity to collectively remember loyal supporters who have passed in 2019. They, and their families and friends, will be in our thoughts.
Supporters are asked to take their seats early to ensure that the silence is observed in the appropriate manner.
