Source: Telegraph
Niall Quinn calls on Sunderland fans to pack out Stadium of Light
Despite heavy investment in the playing staff at Sunderland thanks to the largess of owner Ellis Short, figures show that crowds have decreased compared to last season and now Quinn has taken the initiative to lure more fans to the Premier League club. [LNB]The visit of Manchester United attracted a crowd of just 41,709 fans to the 49,000-capacity Stadium of Light last weekend and Quinn used his programme notes to launch appeal to stay-away supporters. [LNB] Related ArticlesVan der Sar rues lack of cutting edgeSunderland 0 Manchester United 0Premier League actionPremier League tablePremier League fixturesSport on television"To continue making progress we need more people here," Quinn said. [LNB]"We have made decent start, look like we are beginning to get to grips with our away form, have a good home record and have invested significantly in the team. [LNB]"Who knows where all this may lead to but our ambition is clear and the simple fact is that the more people we have with us the stronger we are." [LNB]The former Irish international spoke out ahead of Sunderland's launch this week of the sale of a 10-game season card to cover the second half of the season. [LNB]"I hope the people that matter - i.e. the fans - believe we are going in the right direction as the second half of the season approaches," Quinn said. [LNB]"I know that a lot of you have already backed us by buying season cards to ensure you are at every game and I urge those of you who currently just come to some games to recognise this is the time to join with your fellow supporters at every match." [LNB]He added: "Your support can really help us move up to that next level we are aiming at. I recognise there are those of you who would like to do that but simply can't for financial reasons or otherwise. [LNB]"I still welcome the support of those people whenever they can give it but to those who are still wavering about whether to make the decision to commit to coming every time I urge you to do so." [LNB]
