Name: Marco Gabbiadini
DOB: 20 January 1968
Position: Striker
Appearances: 183
Goals: 87
Sunderland career: 1987-92
PROFILE
Managed by Denis Smith at York aged 16, Marco Gabbiadini was seen as the perfect man to drive Sunderland to the Third Division title in 1987-88.
He scored 21 goals as part of the attacking ensemble dubbed 'G-Force’ after striking up an excellent partnership with Eric Gates.
The following year he was named North East Player of the Year, becoming the first Sunderland player to win the award, and he will always be remembered for his 1990 play-off semi-final goal in a 2-0 win against Newcastle at St James’ Park.