Much like the 1970s, the 1980s proved to be a challenging time for Sunderland as a town.
Coal mining declined during the period with shipbuilding ending in 1988. The unemployment crisis rose to 20% of Mackems out of work in the mid-1980s.
However, Nissan car plant did open in 1986 and on the field, Sunderland reached a cup final the year before.
Scroll down to view these iconic, retro Sunderland AFC photos from the 80s – have any special memories or stories to tell? Get in touch.
13. 1988
Sunderland v Beighton in 1988. A young Alan Curbishley can be seen playing for The Seagulls in the background. | JPIMedia Photo: Sunderland Echo File Picture
14. 1988
Sunderland forward Marco Gabbiadini pictured pre-season circa 1988 at Roker Park. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
15. 1987
Sunderland defender Alan Kennedy pictured during a Division Two match against Shrewsbury at Gay Meadow. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
