Happy Birthday to a Star Born on This Day, September 28, 1958!

Arnott, Kevin

born in Gateshead on September 28, 1958
158 Views, 18 Objectives
Other teams: Chesterfield, Gateshead, Rotherham, Vasalunds, Blackburn, and Sheff United

Regarding Sunderland AFC’s past, Kevin Arnott is still regarded as one of the most cherished midfielders to have played at Roker Park.

Born in Gateshead, Arnott grew up in the area and went through the club’s youth ranks in the 1970s before becoming an important midfield player for Sunderland at one of the most exciting and turbulent times in the team’s history.

In 1976, when he was eighteen, Arnott made his Sunderland debut in the post-Stokoe era, when the club was still struggling to find its identity.

It was evident from the beginning that Arnott possessed unique qualities. His unique blend of skill, vision, and poise when handling the ball set him apart on a team that was otherwise having trouble staying consistent. Arnott was a graceful player who could set the pace of games when he was a deep-lying playmaker. His passing range was exceptional, and many supporters at the time likened his precision through-balls to those of more well-known English football players in breaking open defenses.

In the 1977–78 season, Arnott had his breakout season and established himself as a key member of Jimmy Adamson’s squad. His effort in March 1977 against Manchester United was the one that really marked his big-stage debut. Arnott gave Sunderland, who were in danger of losing their First Division status, the spark they needed with a thrilling 2-0 victory in which he dominated the midfield and showed maturity well beyond his years.

Arnott was a brilliant individual, but in 1977 the club was relegated. Arnott, though, stuck by Sunderland and helped them battle their way back to the top division. He made a significant contribution to the 1979 promotion effort. Arnott directed play from the middle of the pitch alongside veterans like Gary Rowell and Stan Cummins, assisting the Black Cats make their comeback to the First Division with his calmness and quality on the ball.

But as the 1980s went on, Arnott’s career at Sunderland started to suffer from injury. Even though he was still a significant player when healthy, his playing time was restricted due to persistent knocks. He was nevertheless still adored by the public for his football acumen and ability to make the game appear simple.

After losing favor with Alan Durban in 1981, Arnott was loaned to Blackburn and put on transfer. In 1982, he moved to Sheffield United on a free transfer, having made 158 appearances and scored 18 goals for Sunderland. Despite this, his legacy at Roker Park was already established.

Arnott is still remembered by many supporters as one of the most innately talented players to have come through Sunderland’s ranks. He was a member of the group of players who united Sunderland AFC during some of its most trying times, bridging the gap between the team’s victories in the 1970s and its struggles in the 1980s.

Despite the fact that injuries ended Arnott’s Sunderland career, he had a lasting impact while he was a member of the team. Those who are fortunate enough to witness him play still praise highly of his vision, inventiveness, and poise when handling the ball. He was a midfielder who could influence the game in Sunderland’s favor and light up Roker Park with every touch, not just a guy who helped the team out.

We raise a glass to Kevin Arnott, who, at 66 years old, represents the club’s fighting spirit and flair during a critical period in its history, and who has a special place in the pantheon of Sunderland midfield greats.

Best wishes, Kevin!

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