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.
1. 1984
38-year-old Sunderland player Bryan 'Pop' Robson in action during Division One match against Leicester City at Filbert Street on May 12, 1984. Robson scored in a 2-0 win which saved the club from relegation. Photo: Getty Images
2. 1987
Eric Gates in 1987. The Durham-born midfielder scored 46 league goals in 185 appearences before moving to Carlisle United in 1990. Photo: Getty Images
3. 1985
Clive Walker pictured after scoring one of his two goals against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Milk Cup. Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. 1985
Sunderland goalkeeper Chris Turner in action on the plastic pitch of Loftus Road during a match against Queens Park Rangers in February, 1985. Photo: Getty Images