Charlie Methven (L) with Red & White Army Chairman Andrew Hird (C) and supporter liaison officer Chris Waters (R) in front of the newly-named 'Roker End'

Wednesday afternoon saw the Black Cats sell their 38,357th ticket for the visit of Bradford City on Boxing Day, meaning they have passed the number who watched Leeds seal promotion against Gillingham in 2008.

The ticket was bought by Andrew Lee, who will be welcomed onto the pitch at half-time on Boxing Day and join the directors in Quinn’s Bar after the game.

Andrew Lee is greeted by managing director Tony Davison after purchasing the record-breaking ticket

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“When Sunderland are playing you want to be there, that’s what being a supporter is all about," Andrew said.

"I can’t wait for the game.”

Methven is hoping that Sunderland will eventually get over 40,000 through the gates for what will be a crucial League One clash.

"What a phenomenal achievement by our supporters and what a statement to the football world that Sunderland is on its way back," Methven said.

“From the moment Stewart Donald and I came to the north east back in May, our mission was to repair the club’s fractured relationship with its supporters. They are integral to everything we do and to any success we hope to achieve, so to see them returning in such huge numbers is both humbling and heart-warming.

“Boxing Day is going to be a very special day for all of us at the club.

"We will also be re-christening the home end as ‘The Roker End’ just before the match starts, which feels really appropriate given the decibel level of the Roker Roar that should greet the players when they come out of the tunnel.”