Sponsors betting on Black Cats

Barclays Premiership hopefuls Sunderland today announced a sponsorship deal with Ireland’s biggest independent bookmaker which could be worth in excess of £10m (€15m).

Boylesports have agreed a four-year, performance-related partnership with the Black Cats which could eventually amount to an eight-figure sum for the Coca-Cola Championship leaders.

The company, which will also provide betting facilities at the Stadium of Light, replaces motor dealers Reg Vardy after eight years.

Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be joining forces with Boylesports bookmakers to drive the club forward in the next four years, which we think will be exciting times.

“It is fantastic that Boylesports have taken this leap of faith to support us and made a commitment to invest in our future as we continue our efforts to re-ignite the club.”