This is why Stewart Donald isn't at Sunderland v Lincoln City

The Sunderland owner – who is an avid Oxford United fan – was rumoured to be set to watch the Black Cats’ League One rivals take on Hartlepool United in the FA Cup.

Donald was pictured with Hartlepool supporters ahead of the third round tie at the Kassam Stadium, with many assuming he was set to watch the clash.

However, his son has now taken to Twitter to explain his whereabouts.

He posted: “@SunderlandAFC fans giving my dad abuse. He is not at the oxford game he is with me and friends in Oxford City centre for an hour and just saw some Hartlepool fans who wanted photos.”

Earlier this week, Donald announced his intention to sell the Black Cats following fan pressure – but has attended home games in recent weeks.