Black Cats get bigger slice of sponsorship action with Domino’s

SUNDERLAND will wear a sleeve sponsor in the cup for the first time tonight when they face Bristol Rovers in the Checkatrade Trophy.

The Black Cats take on Rovers in the semi-finals at the Memorial Stadium.

The Wearsiders have agreed a deal which will see Jack Ross’ men sport the logo of pizza company Domino’s on the left sleeve of their shirts during the tie, the owners of the Durham delivery outlets – who are members of the club’s In Business scheme – paying what is thought to be a four-figure sum.

In common with all other EFL sides, Sunderland already wear the logo of EFL sponsors Skybet for their league games.

However, as of last season clubs were granted permission to secure a sleeve sponsor for each round in the three cup competitions – the FA Cup, League Cup and the Checkatrade Trophy.

Sunderland managing-director Tony Davison said: “This is a first for the club and we are delighted one of our In Business members Domino’s Durham hassigned up to be our shirt sleeve sponsor for the semi-final.

“The rules changed last season to allow shirt sleeve sponsorship in cup games and – particularly when a tie is being screened live on TV – there is value for a company in taking up the opportunity.

“It brings national TV exposure within reach of the budgets of local businesses. It is something we will be exploring again in the future.”

The sponsorship will be a one-off in the tournament this season, as should Sunderland should progress to the final they woud have to wear EFL branding on their shirt sleeves at Wembley.