Born on this day in Chester in 1980 is former Sunderland defender and now one of the voices of Sunderland live streams, Danny Collins. The Wales international was a familiar face during the empty-stadium era, co-hosting the club’s matches for fans at home. Collins signed as an unknown figure from Chester City after impressing in a cup tie against Mick McCarthy’s men. He was initially used as a backup player but worked his way into the team in his second season. However, the campaign was a...

On this day in 1968, former Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio was born in Rome, Italy. Di Canio is best remembered for orchestrating a 3-0 win over Newcastle United at St James' Park. Di Canio’s arrival caused the instant resignation of club vice-chairman David Miliband due to his... questionable political views. The Italian was tasked with keeping Sunderland in the Premier League and providing a short, sharp shock to the system after Martin O’Neill’s poor run of form. In his second match as...

On this day in 1941, former Sunderland manager and Wales international Alan Durban was born in Bridgend. He joined SAFC from Stoke City, Durban claims that one of the main reasons behind the surprise move was because Sunderland offered to buy his house in Shrewsbury for the same price he bought it. Durban joined a pretty poor Sunderland side in 1981 and attempted to reinvigorate the squad by adding young players with time to develop and mature. The new-look team included a new record signing,...