Regis Le Bris' Manager of the Season nomination allowed our gaffer to have a rare moment of reflection where he discussed Sunderland's excellent collective season, his obsession with coaching and how he's always just focused on the next game. MANAGER OF THE SEASON NOMINEE “I’m really proud - for me, the club, the staff and the players because it’s a collective achievement. No matter the result at the end, it highlights once again the quality of the group and the season overall. The Premier...

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...

On this day in 1981 former Sunderland skipper, Champions League winner and multiple Premier League champion John O'Shea was born in Waterford, Republic of Ireland. O'Shea was a serial winner at Manchester United. Twelve years in the North West yielded the following: five Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, a FIFA Club World Cup, an FA Cup, two League Cups and four Community Shields. When he was negotiating his first Sunderland contract, he apparently insisted on there being a...