Sunderland begins pre-season after first-ever relegation
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 5:00 AM
Last updated Jul 29, 2026
On July 29, 1958, Sunderland FC started pre-season training following their first relegation in history. Manager Alan Brown invited a reporter for insights into the squad's morale and preparations at their new training facility. The session occurred as Sunderland faced fallout from the 'Mr Smith' scandal, with players eager to prove their commitment. Key players had engaged in voluntary training sessions ahead of the official start, demonstrating their readiness to bounce back for the upcoming season.
- •Sunderland began pre-season training on July 29, 1958.
- •Alan Brown managed the team during this transitional period.
- •The club faced challenges from relegation and the 'Mr Smith' scandal.
- •Players, including Don Revie, showed strong commitment to team's revival.
- •New training facilities were under development near Cleadon.
- 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — On This Day (29th July 1958): Inside Sunderland’s First Day Back After Relegation
"What was Sunderland's first day of pre-season really like after relegation? A remarkable newspaper report offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of Alan Brown's revolution.
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