On this day in 1989, Kieron Brady made his debut as a substitute in our 3-1 win over Plymouth. The Republic of Ireland international is widely known as one of the most talented players to ever wear red and white, yet was unable to fulfil his potential before early retirement due to injury.
Brady replaced Paul Hardyman as a half-time substitute at Roker Park, with the Lads already 2-1 up. A rare Dicky Ord goal would quickly put Sunderland out of sight. His first start for the club then came in a 2-2 draw with Port Vale. Kieron scored his first goal for the club in a famous match against West Ham, where the youngster really broke onto the big stage. The lads were playing West Ham at Roker Park, and had gone a goal down. Brady equalised with a spectacular overhead kick that headed directly into the bottom corner. The lads ended up winning 4-3, with Kieron single-handedly dragging us to victory. He also got three assists in the game, leading to him understandably being named Man of the Match.
Fans were amazed by Brady’s sensational performance, and there was huge clamour to see him in the team more often. Many saw him as Roker Park’s answer to Gazza! He went on to score his second and only goal of the season just a week later, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win at Bradford. The three points were crucial as Sunderland went on to win promotion.
The Glasgow-born midfielder struggled with personal problems, and a lack of professionalism limited his first team opportunities. He played 14 games in the top-flight, scoring against Chelsea and Crystal Palace. However, following our relegation he only made twelve more appearances in red and white, scoring three times. He was sent to Doncaster on loan, where he impressed again in a limited spell. In four appearances, he scored an impressive three goals, becoming a fan favourite instantly amongst Rovers’ fans.
Unfortunately, Brady was forced to retire at 22 years old due to a vascular condition that was extremely rare. It left Brady with mental health problems, and struggling with addiction. He is thankfully now sober, and helps others deal with their personal issues. He remains one of Sunderland’s biggest “what if” players, with Michael Gray describing Brady as “the most talented footballer he ever saw".
