Jack Ross’ players enjoyed a different kind of workout on Thursday afternoon, as they linked up with the red and white army to take part in the #SoLSeatChange.
After training at the Stadium of Light in the morning, the Lads swapped training drills for mechanic drills, and some – we’re looking at you, Bali – went above and beyond!
Supporters have been turning up in the droves across the week to help make the SoL great again, with the second phase focussing on the north stand.
Ross’ backroom team also got stuck in, while Stewart Donald surprised those who attended the evening session as work continued long into the night.
🛠 Not to be outdone by the @SunderlandAFC squad, chairman @stewartdonald3 puts in a shift! #SoLSeatChange pic.twitter.com/lFMplSz45S
— Stadium of Light (@StadiumOfLight) September 13, 2018
And speaking to safc.com, Luke O’Nien explained why working alongside the fans is the least the players and staff can do.
“What the supporters have been doing is class,” said the midfielder.
“It doesn’t go unnoticed and if we can come and give them a hand, and show them have much we appreciate it, then it’s the least we can do.”
He continued: “I was with Glenn [Loovens] and he did quite a few.
“Bali was even up there on the crane, so everyone got stuck in and got their hands dirty.”
Whatever you do, @BaliMumba8, do not tell your mother about this... 😂🙈 pic.twitter.com/ywM8gk73XC
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 13, 2018
Joanne Youngson, who has sat in the same seat since the Stadium of Light opened in 1997, was one of supporters who volunteered.
“It’s a big thing for the club to be doing to get everyone on board,” she explained.
“I’ve waited purposely for the north stand to be done because I’ve sat here since the stadium opened, and I wanted to take my own seat away.”
She added: “It was good for the players to get stuck in – Cattermole got stuck in, and O’Nien – and it was really nice to sit and chat with them.
“We all got on together as a team.”
@RokerReport @ALS_Fanzine look who came along to help with the seat change this afternoon 😀 pic.twitter.com/tQZAf6O9OW
— willie watson (@jeranderson63) September 13, 2018