OTD: DAVID RUSH BORN

Born on this day is local lad David Rush. He fulfilled his boyhood dream of playing for the Lads, making his debut in 1989.

Denis Smith was in charge when Rush came through. He'd captained Sunderland Schoolboys, and joined the senior side after a brief stint at Notts County.

Despite showing immense talent at youth level, Rush never cemented a place in the first team. His most successful season was the 1991/92 season which saw Sunderland reach Wembley. He played in the final- wearing the now iconic white away kit.

A few years ago, his wife came into ALS and bought him a 1992 away mug, with a matching coaster and bottle opener, for Christmas commemorating that FA Cup final kit.

Rush would make 72 appearances in all competitions for Sunderland, scoring 13 times. After his time on Wearside came to an end, David signed for Oxford.

He cost £100,000 and was a regular starter at the Manor Ground. In two seasons, he quickly became a fan favourite- scoring 20 goals in 77 games.

He was a promotion winner at Oxford, coming runners-up to Swindon as the side progressed to Division One (second tier). Rush would go on to feature for York, where his time was blighted by illness, before retiring back in the North East with Hartlepool.