Sunderland prepares for season in new stadium and Irish tour

On June 23, 1997, Sunderland AFC announced plans for a pre-season tour of Ireland while preparing for their first season in the newly named Stadium of Light, following relegation from the Premier League. Manager Peter Reid scheduled matches against St. Patrick’s Athletic, Portadown, and Shelbourne. Concerns arose about potential clashes with Newcastle United's scheduled match against Celtic or Derry City, but a spokesperson confirmed the Irish fixtures would proceed as planned. Additionally, Sunderland hosted a successful auction for items from Roker Park, with notable sales including the boardroom table for £2,000 and pieces of the pitch sold for £2.50 each.

• 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — On This Day (23 June 1997): Sunderland Prepare To Move Into A New Éire