Sunderland announce Ajax friendly

Sunderland welcome Dutch giants Ajax of Amsterdam to the Stadium of Light this summer for the first time since the inaugural game at the venue in 1997.

Adrie Koster's side will return to Wearside on 3 August to help commemorate the 35th anniversary of the 1973 FA Cup win against Leeds United.

Chairman Niall Quinn told the club website: "Ajax of Amsterdam is one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"They played here to open the stadium. We're delighted to welcome them back."

Ajax are four times winners of the European Cup but have been unable to break PSV Eindhoven's hold on the Eredivisie title in recent season.

However the Amsterdammers possess some impressive talent in the shape of Dutch starlet Klass Jan Huntelaar, veteran midfielder Edgar Davids and full-back Johnny Heitinga.

Club legend Danny Blind has also recently returned to the club in the role of technical director.

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