On this day in 1997, Chris Waddle made his debut for us in a 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest. He came to his boyhood club, Sunderland, in the twilight of his career. Heworth-born Waddle played for several North East based clubs like Pelaw Juniors and Tow Law Town before signing for Newcastle United as a teenager, whilst he was still working for Cheviot Seasoning (a sausage and pie maker). Waddle became a hero at St James’ Park (despite being a Sunderland fan as a child) scoring 52 times and...

On this day in 1988, Lee Cattermole was born in Middlesbrough. He went on to play over 250 games for Sunderland, sticking with the club through two relegations. Cattermole came through Middlesbrough’s academy and made his debut in the Tyne-Tees 'derby' against Newcastle United. The game finished 2-2, but the young midfielder was named Man of the Match. Boro coach Steve McClaren said: "I thought young Lee Cattermole was outstanding on his debut. He's only 17 and didn't look out of place at...

On this day in 1998, Niall Quinn netted three times in a 4-1 First Division win at the Stadium of Light over Stockport County. Quinn joined Sunderland towards the end of his career, after a prolific spell at Manchester City. He scored on his City debut, in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Maine Road. In his first full season he managed an impressive 22 goals, going on to play for City for six years. However, his time at Maine Road was hampered by injury and he never fully recovered after the...