Ritchie Pitt, who has been heavily involved in planning this year's landmark celebrations, said: "It's a fantastic gesture by the club."

Sunderland will play the four-times European Cup winners on Sunday, August 3 - 11 years after the Dutch side were the for the official opening of the Stadium of Light.

The match is the culmination of a series of events to mark the 35th anniversary of Sunderland's FA Cup Final win over Leeds at Wembley.

Part of the proceeds of the fixture will be given to support the 1973 team's year of celebration.

Chairman Niall Quinn said: "The 1973 team gave our club one of its finest moments, so we're delighted to mark their anniversary celebrations with what will be a showpiece game at the Stadium of Light.

"The match will also play a vital part in the manager's pre-season preparations, as well as an anniversary celebration for the '73 team, so it promises to be one very special occasion.

"Ajax is one of the biggest clubs in the world – their domestic and European record is there to be admired – while they also boast one of the best worldwide reputations for producing top, young players.

"They last played here to officially open the Stadium of Light, and we're delighted to welcome them back to Wearside."

Sunderland boss Roy Keane – who played against the Dutch masters several times for Manchester United over the years – said: "It's great to have top opposition lined up for our pre-season calendar.

"It will be an important game for us and our preparations for the Premier League season, but it should also be a top game for what is an important anniversary for this football club."

The Stadium of Light was opened with a friendly against Ajax on July 30, 1997 – a game which finished 0-0 – though Kevin Ball always reminds the Press that his goal in that game should never have been disallowed.

Last summer, Sunderland hosted Italian giants Juventus to celebrate the stadium's 10th anniversary.

Ajax, currently managed by Adrie Koster, were pipped to the Dutch title by PSV this season, but the Amsterdam club have won the Eredivisie 29 times, as well as the Dutch KNVB Cup 15 times.

They have also won the Champions League four times, the Intercontinental Cup twice, the European Cup Winners' Cup, the UEFA Cup and the UEFA Super Cup twice.

Ticket details for the game, which will kick-off at 3pm, are due to be announced soon.

Further announcements regarding Sunderland's pre-season trips abroad will be made once negotiations are complete.