The football world is mourning the loss of a true legend, as former Sunderland striker Gary Rowell has passed away at the age of 68. The news of his death comes as a shock to fans and players alike, and is especially poignant given the timing - just a day before the highly anticipated derby match between Sunderland and Newcastle.
Rowell, who was born in Seaham, had been battling leukaemia and sadly succumbed to the disease on Saturday. His death marks a sad day for the football community, and the Black Cats have announced that they will be paying tribute to his memory at the upcoming match against Newcastle. The fact that his passing comes 50 years to the day since he made his Sunderland debut makes the occasion all the more sombre.
Gary Rowell's career was nothing short of remarkable. He made 297 appearances for Sunderland, scoring an impressive 103 goals during his 12-year stay at Roker Park. His exploits on the pitch earned him a place in the hearts of fans, and he remains one of the most beloved players in the club's history. Rowell's journey to the top began when he was spotted playing for Seaham Juniors, and he signed as an apprentice with Sunderland in 1972. Two years later, he was handed a first professional contract, and the rest, as they say, is history.
One of the highlights of Rowell's career came in February 1979, when he scored a hat-trick in a 4-1 Division Two win over Newcastle at St James' Park. This feat cemented his status as a hero among Sunderland fans, and he went on to repeat the trick in a 3-0 Division One win over Arsenal in December 1982. Rowell's goalscoring prowess earned him a single cap for England at under-21 level, and he is one of only three men - along with Len Shackleton and Kevin Phillips - to have scored 100 goals for the club since the second world war.
Rowell's legacy extends far beyond his playing career. He was a true legend of the game, and his dedication and passion inspired countless fans and players alike. His memory will live on, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
After leaving Sunderland for Norwich in the summer of 1984, Rowell went on to have spells with Middlesbrough, Brighton, Carlisle, and Burnley. Although his playing career was marked by injury, including a spell on the sidelines during Norwich's victory over his former club in the 1985 League Cup final, Rowell remained committed to the sport he loved. After hanging up his boots, he worked as a financial consultant and radio pundit, sharing his expertise and insights with fans and listeners alike.
Rowell's passing has sent shockwaves through the football community, and tributes have been pouring in from fans, players, and fellow pundits. His legacy will live on, and he will be remembered as a true hero of the game. As the Black Cats prepare to face off against Newcastle in the first Premier League derby between the clubs since March 2016, they will do so with heavy hearts, knowing that they have lost a true legend.
The football world will come together to pay tribute to Gary Rowell's memory, and his legacy will continue to inspire fans and players alike. As the Black Cats take to the pitch to face Newcastle, they will do so with a sense of pride and purpose, knowing that they are carrying on the legacy of a true legend. Rowell's death may have come as a shock, but his memory will live on, and he will always be remembered as a hero of the game.
Original: The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
Written by Npsports
