Roy Greenwood barred from Sunderland team photo for refusing to shave

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 5:00 AM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Roy Greenwood barred from Sunderland team photo for refusing to shave
Summary

On August 17, 1976, Sunderland winger Roy Greenwood was excluded from the club's official team photo by manager Bob Stokoe due to his refusal to shave his beard. Greenwood, who joined Sunderland from Hull City earlier that year for £141,600, had been a part of the squad that won the Division Two title. While Stokoe expressed disappointment over the player's decision, stating it was important for the team to present a clean-cut appearance, he confirmed that there would be no further disciplinary action. Greenwood noted he had been surprised by the ruling and mentioned that he had sported the beard for years without issues.

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Status Watch
  • Roy Greenwood joined Sunderland in January 1976 from Hull City.
  • Bob Stokoe barred Greenwood from the official team photo.
  • Stokoe emphasized the importance of a clean-cut look for players.
  • Greenwood was surprised by the manager's ruling on his beard.
  • Sunderland had just won the Division Two title.
Latest Updates
  • 5:00 AMYahoo SportsOn This Day (17th Aug 1976): Beard-Gate — When Roy Greenwood Fell Foul of Bob Stokoe
What they're saying
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Roy Greenwood had only been at Sunderland for seven months, but his refusal to shave his beard was enough to keep him out of the club’s official team photo.

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