The 12 HARDEST players to have featured for Sunderland - according to Black Cats supporters
Sunderland have has some extremely tough tackling players in recent years – but which stars do supporters believe are the hardest to have played for the club?
A couple of months ago, The Echo asked Sunderland supporters to name the hardest players to have played for the club and with the World Cup now upon us, we take a look at what fans had to say.
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5. Grant Leadbitter
You can't have Lee Cattermole on the list without Grant Leadbitter too! Here are the pair locking horns with each other during a Tees-Wear game. Photo: STRINGER
6. Alex Rae
This list would not be complete without Alex Rae, who was one tough, tough competitor during his time at Sunderland. Photo: Graham Chadwick
7. Phil Bardsley
Makes the list by way of his well-documented knockout of Wayne Rooney during a makeshift boxing match. Photo: Ryan Pierse
8. Bobby Kerr
Bobby Kerr was hard as nails. After twice breaking his leg at the start of his Sunderland career, Kerr overcame the setbacks to lead the club to FA Cup glory in 1973 by beating strong favourites Leeds United. Photo: Getty Images