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.
17. 1988
Sunderland won the match 1-0 at Roker Park. | JPIMedia Photo: Sunderland Echo File Picture
18. 1985
Sunderland captain Barry VenisonLeague Division One match between Queens Park Rangers and Sunderland at Loftus Road. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
19. 1988
Sunderland player Gordon Armstrong pictured during a pre-season photocall in August 1988. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
20. 1988
Sunderland player Gary Owers pictured at a pre-season photocall at Roker Park in August 1988 United Kingdom. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images