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Sunderland A.F.C.

They were first formed as an association of district teachers. Founded by James Allan, they were first called 'The Sunderland and District Teachers' Association FC. Within a year the club had ran into financial difficulties and became Sunderland AFC one year later in 1880. The club was created by a Scotsman James Allen, and for over 60 years the club never had an English manager. Only in 1957 with Alan Brown was an Englishman given the job.

Before then a run of Scotsmen were managers, which included Tom Watson, Bob Campbell, Alex Mackie, Bob Kyle, Johnny Cochrane and Bill Murray. The majority of the club success came before the first world war. They were first division champions five times between 1892 and 1913. Only once have they won the first division post WW1, that came in 1936. Post WW2 they have only won two major trophies, the last being a big upset against the great Don Revie Leeds United side in the 1973 FA Cup Final.

Before the WW2 Sunderland were one of the most successful clubs in England, and spent 68-years in the first division. They were relegated for the first time in 1958, after a financial meltdown. The 1880's were a dark period for the club, which saw them relegated to the third division for the first time in their history. The late 1990's saw an upturn in fortunes. Peter Reid restored the club to the top flight of English football, and managed a seventh place finish in the league.

They also moved from Roker Park to the Stadium of Light, a 49,000-all seat stadium. The north east has always been a hot bed for football, a passionate area which attracts huge crowds when a winning team is produced. The club has recently been in yo-yo action between the Premier League and Championship divisions.

Without doubt Sunderland could become the 'Bank of England' club again if a great team can be created. For a moderately sized city the support available is astounding.