Sunderland legends pay tribute and Crowdfunding page launched after long-serving kit man John Cooke is made redundant

A Crowdfunding page has also been set up by one fan to give Cooke - who had enjoyed more than 25 years in the role - the 'send off he deserves' following fan criticism of his departure.

The former Sunderland player-turned kit manager Cooke, meanwhile, has said it was 'very disappointing' to have been redundant 'without even a mention that I have left' and is considering his legal options.

Cooke, speaking to the Chronicle, said: "The way it has been handled leaves an especially sour taste, and I'm looking at what legal options are available to me."

Sunderland AFC has been approached for comment.

Popular with fans, players and managers alike, Cooke was placed on furlough leave in March with other backroom staff but he was not recalled back to work.

Reacting to his departure on Twitter, Gray tweeted: "1st person to come to me when I missed my penalty... 26yrs service as player & Kitman. I will never forget that mate.. good luck in your next venture COOKIE #safc you will be missed"

And former Sunderland boss Reid tweeted: "Great at his job, @SunderlandAFC will miss his personality , drive and humour."

Thomas Sorensen tweeted: "Cookie is a legend and has given everything to @SunderlandAFC. The club should not forget to recognise a person who worked every day of the week, through the night at times, so us players could proudly wear the club badge."

Meanwhile, Sunderland fan Craig Stewart has set up a fundraising Crowdfunding page with £255 already raised, he said: "Donate what you can and give Cookie the send off he deserves."

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