Denis Smith confirms Sunderland interest in striker Gary Penrice

On September 7, 1987, Sunderland manager Denis Smith publicly confirmed his club had made an inquiry for Bristol Rovers forward Gary Penrice. Smith aimed to bolster the squad's attacking options despite a strong start to the season that saw the team sitting atop the Third Division. The manager maintained he would not participate in an auction for the player and noted that he had yet to submit a formal bid. Alongside the interest in Penrice, Smith addressed reports linking the club to Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Steve Bull, though he denied making any formal contact with the player. Meanwhile, Newcastle United manager Willie McFaul prepared to scout Arsenal striker Niall Quinn during an upcoming international fixture in Dublin. These personnel searches occurred as Smith managed a broader rebuilding effort for the Sunderland side following a difficult period for the club.

• 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — On This Day (7th Sep 1987): Smith Confirms Interest In Bristol Striker & A Load Of Bull