Sunderland legend Gary Bennett launches elite football training academy - here's how you can get involved

Bennett and Gray have embarked on a joint venture to launch the MGB Academy, with the aim of providing more elite football training opportunities to grassroots footballers in the North East.

Speaking about the launch, Bennett said: “I am delighted to partner with Martin on the MGB Academy.

“We have worked together for many years and we are very much looking forward to supporting and developing the local footballing talent.”

Gray added: “We both thoroughly enjoyed our time at Sunderland during our careers and we look forward to providing further opportunities for the young people in the region.”

Both former Sunderland stars have management experience, with Gray having managed York City while both led Darlington. The duo are also both UEFA-qualified and are now keen to pass on their decades of experience in the game to aspiring players.

And youngsters can get involved with the academy courtesy of two taster sessions this month.

These will take place on Tuesday, March 3 and Tuesday, March 10 at Silksworth Sports Complex, Sunderland, SR3 1PD.

The sessions are open for 5-15-year-olds and take place from 6:30pm to 8:30pm on both evenings. Sessions will continue to run on a term-time basis and more information can be found by emailing [email protected]