Bob Stokoe will forever be woven into the fabric of Sunderland history, but his legacy transcends his statue and the memories of Wembley wonder, with his family cheering on the Black Cats to this very day.
Last month’s clash against Cardiff City fell on the weekend that Stokoe would have celebrated his 87th birthday, but he was there in spirit with his daughter, Karen Craven, the club’s guest of honour.
Karen, who regularly attends games at the Stadium of Light with her husband, Malcolm, lived every minute and kicked every ball during her father’s memorable tenure as Sunderland manager.
And although she was unable to attend the 1973 FA Cup final at Wembley, the memories she forged on that special day – and indeed over the years that followed – are priceless.
“1973 is, of course, the big memory, but unfortunately I wasn’t allowed to go to the game,” revealed Craven with a wry smile.
“My mum wanted me to go but my dad said no because he thought I was too young, and he said that there wouldn’t be any children there – and there were actually quite a lot!”
She continued: “Instead, I watched it on the tele with my grandparents and if anything, that made it even more surreal.
“My grandma couldn’t watch because she was far too nervous, so she took the dog for a walk and grandad and I sat and watched it – and it was wonderful.”
We’ve all been told ‘no’ at one point or another by our parents, but I think we can all agree that this one probably takes the biscuit, however, mum and dad Stokoe more than made up for it as Karen grew up alongside the heroes of 73’ and established a connection to the club that will last a lifetime.
“When I see the 73’ team, who I’ve grown up with in a way, it’s like seeing family, and my parents made it that way.
“Sir Bob Murray invited me and my husband to a game after dad died and he said to us, ‘you can come to any game you like, just let me know’, and every single chairman since has said exactly the same which is just marvellous.”
She added: “It is [wonderful to come to the stadium and see a statue of Dad outside], it really is, and like I said the club have been brilliant.”