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Sunderland AFC have introduced a striking new addition to their stadium exterior ahead of a key home fixture.
The eye-catching update brings a strong sense of history back to the Stadium of Light.
New sign installed on back of Roker End stand at Stadium of Light
Sunderland have confirmed that a new ‘Welcome to Sunderland’ sign will be installed on the exterior of the Roker End ahead of their clash with Nottingham Forest.
The sign is a direct nod to the club’s former home, Roker Park, where it became an iconic feature for supporters over the years.
It forms part of a wider redevelopment project around the Roker End, including the creation of “Legends’ Way” – a redesigned fan route linking the city to the stadium via Keel Crossing.
At the heart of the plans is the “Wembley Path”, celebrating Sunderland’s famous 1973 FA Cup triumph.
The route will connect the statue of Bob Stokoe with a soon-to-be-installed statue of Jimmy Montgomery.
Supporters will also be able to leave a lasting mark through “Legend Stones”, with 14 figures from the club’s history honoured following a fan vote, ranging from title winners to cup heroes.
The redevelopment is designed to create a more engaging and meaningful arrival point for fans heading into the stadium on matchdays.
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FGG says: A classy nod to the past that Sunderland fans will love
This is exactly the kind of upgrade that tends to resonate with supporters.
Modern stadium improvements can sometimes feel a bit soulless, but this leans heavily into Sunderland’s history.
Bringing back the ‘Welcome to Sunderland’ sign from Roker Park is a clever touch.
Not everyone will care about aesthetics outside the ground, but for many, this kind of homage will matter.
It links generations of supporters and reinforces what the club stands for beyond just results on the pitch.