Stewart Donald, David Jones and Tom Sloanes react as Sunderland appoint new non-executive directors

Jones joins, pending EFL approval, alongside Tom Sloanes, commercial director at GVC group.

Sloanes was a key figure in the deal that saw BETDAQ become the club’s shirt sponsor at the start of last season.

As well as his role with Sky, Jones also recently served as a director at Oxford United for three years.

Donald said: “We warmly welcome David and Tom to the club. As lifelong Sunderland fans, they share a tremendous passion for the football club and bring with them a wealth of football knowledge and commercial experience.”

Jones said it was an ‘honour’ to be offered the role.

“I was honoured to accept Stewart Donald’s invitation to join the board,” he said.

“As a supporter of over 35 years, the club has always been close to my heart and I’ll do everything I can to help it get back to where it belongs - and the sooner the better.

“Naturally I am acutely aware of how the football club is woven into the very fabric of the city and its people, so bringing success back to Sunderland is so important on many levels and I can’t wait to get started.”

Sloanes added: “From a young lad playing for Sunderland Boys, to sealing the deal to bring in BETDAQ as the club’s shirt sponsor, Sunderland has been a significant part of my life for over 50 years.

“I care deeply and passionately about this football club. I understand the commercial side of football, but I also understand the emotional side of being a Sunderland fan and to be able to be in a position to help it to move forward is hugely exciting for me.”

The Black Cats have seen two key departures at boardroom level this season, with Charlie Methven resigning from his post as executive director, and Tony Davison departing from his role as managing director.

Methven retains his 6% shareholding.