Born on this day is former Sunderland defender and now the voice 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 season was a disaster for everyone involved, and we were relegated with a record low of 15 points.
Despite losing his place following our relegation, the arrival of Roy Keane reinstated Collins into the first team. Keane brought with him a winner’s mentality and Sunderland were crowned champions of the Championship at the end of the season. Collins was a fan favourite on Wearside, and a famous chant claimed that he should play for Brazil.