Sunderland issue important message to supporters ahead of historic AZ Alkmaar visit
Sunderland begin their Europa League campaign at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night
Sunderland have urged supporters to make the club's first European night in 53 years 'one that the city can be proud of'.
The Black Cats have this morning confirmed that AZ Alkmaar's visiting fans will hold a planned march to the Stadium of Light ahead of the game, which could see the Keel Crossing temporarily closed. The march will take place at around 5.30pm and fans have been warned that there may be a brief delay to using the crossing around that that time as a result.
In a statement, the Black Cats said the wanted the night to be 'remembered for the right reasons' and asked supporters 'to welcome our visitors and enjoy the occasion responsibly'.
It's set to be a famous night on Wearside as the club kicks of its Europa League campaign, with a capacity crowd expected for the clash.
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Sunderland’s statement to supporters in full
Wednesday’s UEFA Europa League fixture against AZ Alkmaar will be a historic occasion for Sunderland AFC, marking the Club’s first European home fixture in 53 years.
With supporters travelling from the Netherlands to experience the occasion, we are looking forward to welcoming AZ Alkmaar, its players and supporters to Sunderland and the Stadium of Light.
As part of their visit, a number of AZ Alkmaar supporters will take part in a planned march to the Stadium of Light. The march, which will commence at 5.30pm approximately, will use the Keel Crossing as supporters make their way towards the stadium. As a result, the Keel Crossing may be temporarily closed for a short period to allow the march to pass safely. Supporters and members of the public are asked to be aware of a potential brief delay when using the crossing. It will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.
After 53 years without European football at the Stadium of Light, Wednesday represents an important moment in the Club’s history and an opportunity for Sunderland to showcase itself on the European stage.
We want the occasion to be remembered for the right reasons and ask all supporters to welcome our visitors and enjoy the occasion responsibly.
Supporters are reminded to:
* Respect fellow supporters, visiting supporters, players, staff and match officials.
* Follow the instructions of stewards, police and other matchday staff.
* Avoid behaviour that could put themselves or others at risk.
* Help create a passionate but welcoming atmosphere inside and around the Stadium of Light.
* Remember that the eyes of the football world will be on Sunderland as the Club returns to European competition.
Let’s make our first European night in 53 years one that Sunderland can be proud of.