Sunderland will get their Premier League season under way against West Ham(Image: PA)
Legendary Sunderland captain Kevin Ball reckons being at home on the opening day fixture “sets the tone.” Now 60, the defensive midfielder spent a glorious decade at Roker Park and then the Stadium of Light from 1990.
Revered on Wearside, Ball has shared his thoughts on the Lads’ return to the Premier League, speaking at the Foundation of Light’s annual fixtures breakfast.
Ball, who captained [Sunderland](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/all-about/sunderland-afc) during his playing career and remains a prominent ambassador for the club, addressed a packed audience as anticipation continues to build for the 2025/26 top-flight campaign.
With the Premier League fixtures officially released, Ball highlighted the excitement surrounding the opening game of the season – a home fixture against West Ham United at the Stadium of Light.
“To start at home, in front of our supporters, is a huge moment,” he said.
“That first game sets the tone. With season tickets sold out and the Stadium of Light packed to the rafters, the atmosphere will be electric – and it will make a difference.”
Ball also emphasised the importance of engaging the next generation of supporters, many of whom will experience Premier League football for the first time.
“For a lot of young fans, this will be their first time seeing Sunderland in the Premier League.
“Meeting their heroes, being part of that matchday experience, creates lifelong memories. We have a responsibility to make sure they feel part of it.”
The former skipper praised the ongoing work of the Foundation of Light in connecting the club to the wider community and in helping to inspire local pride through education, sport, and opportunity.
“The foundation plays a massive role in what this football club stands for. As we return to the Premier League, the spotlight grows, and so does the chance to use our platform for good.”
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Meanwhile, five Sunderland Women players have signed new contracts ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Eleanor Dale, Katie Kitching, Libbi McInnes, Katy Watson and Ellen Jones have all penned new deals on Wearside.
Dale had an exceptional first season following her arrival last summer, scoring 13 goals and registering two assists in all competitions.
The 2024/25 Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season winners Kitching and McInnes both extend their stay in red and white.
New Zealand international Kitching registered 10 league goal contributions in a standout campaign for Sunderland, while academy graduate McInnes also impressed in the middle of the park.
Watson, another player who has risen through the Sunderland ranks, has played 80 times already for the Lasses despite being just 18 years of age.
Finally, Jones will be going into her third season with the club. The winger ended last season strongly, scoring three goals in the last three games, including a brace in a 3-2 win against Bristol City at Ashton Gate.