Sunderland AFC boss Chris Coleman and players spread Christmas cheer to young fans on hospital visits

Chris Coleman thanked families and staff for an '˜amazing welcome' as he and his Sunderland squad visited children's wards across the North East.
Sunderland boss Chris Coleman meets seven-year-old Abi Smith during a Christmas visit to Sunderland Royal Hospital.Sunderland boss Chris Coleman meets seven-year-old Abi Smith during a Christmas visit to Sunderland Royal Hospital.
Sunderland boss Chris Coleman meets seven-year-old Abi Smith during a Christmas visit to Sunderland Royal Hospital.

Coleman, chief executive Martin Bain and club ambassador Kevin Ball handed out presents to children and nursing staff at Sunderland Royal Hospital, University Hospital of North Durham and the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle respectively.

The Black Cats boss described the experience as ‘humbling’ for him and his players.

Leon Hayland, five, was among young patients at Sunderland Royal Hospital who received a visit from the Black Cats' squad.Leon Hayland, five, was among young patients at Sunderland Royal Hospital who received a visit from the Black Cats' squad.
Leon Hayland, five, was among young patients at Sunderland Royal Hospital who received a visit from the Black Cats' squad.
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He said: "I think it is a bit of reality for us. We’ve been to three hospital hospitals today, in Sunderland, Durham and Newcastle, and the welcome they’ve given us is amazing. It has been humbling to be honest and I have to thank all the families and the staff, they’ve been great."

As well as his playing staff Coleman was joined by assistant Kit Symons, donning festive jumpers and Santa hats as they met children from the local area.

Coleman said it was good for his players to break out of their ‘bubble’ and said they were bowled over by the reception they received.

"It is good for the players to get out and put smiles on faces," he said.

Two-year-old Leah Partland received a visit from the SAFC squad at Sunderland Royal Hospital.Two-year-old Leah Partland received a visit from the SAFC squad at Sunderland Royal Hospital.
Two-year-old Leah Partland received a visit from the SAFC squad at Sunderland Royal Hospital.
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"Football is a sheltered and guarded world, we live an a bit of a bubble and it is unrealistic. But as strange as it sounds I think players always wonder how they’re going to be received. It’s nothing for us to really to get out and about and it has been great for everyone."

Club captain John O’Shea echoed his manager’s sentiments and said the squad were thrilled to support the community.

He said: "We really look forward to these visits every year – it is a humbling experience. Being in hospital is never fun for anyone, especially for children, and even less so at Christmas time.

"As a squad we enjoy being able to get out into the community and visit the children and their families. Hopefully our visits go a little way to help the youngsters at what must be a difficult time for them and their families."