If you’re looking forward to seeing how Sunderland perform in the 2019/20 season, then take a look back at the club’s first game of the season over the years.
5. Kevin Phillips - 1998 - Sunderland v Queens Park Rangers
Kevin Phillips scored against Queens Park Rangers during the opening game of the season, 8 August 1998. This season saw Sunderland secure their place in the Premier League by winning the Division One title. Photo: Getty
6. Eric Gates - 1989 - Sunderland v Swindon Town
Sunderland won 2-0 against Swindon in their first game of the season, 19 August 1989. Eric Gates and Warren Hawke both scored during this game. Photo: Getty Images
7. Seb Larsson - 2011 - Sunderland v Liverpool
Sebastian Larsson scored a fantastic volley on his debut to the team, earning a point for Sunderland at Liverpool. Photo: Getty
8. Lee Cattermole - 2014 - Sunderland v West Bromwich Albion
Sunderland gained a point in the first game of the season against West Bromwich Albion, with Lee Cattermole and Seb Larsson both scoring. Photo: Ian MacNicol