By Graeme Dey

ARBROATH HAVE pulled off a major coup, securing a pre-season friendly with Premiership outfit Sunderland.

The Black Cats will play the Lichties at Gayfield on Saturday, July 19.

That follows weeks of feverish activity on the part of Arbroath secretary Gary Callon to set up not only the game but also training facilities and accomodation for Sunderland who’ll be based in Carnoustie during a three-day stay in Angus.

“It’s going to be a great occasion for our club,” commented manager John McGlashan last night.

“Sunderland have 40 of a first team squad. 25 of these guys are going on the main pre-season tour. The remainder will be involved in the match with us.

“It’s a big deal for Arbroath getting a team like Sunderland and Gary deserves a lot of credit for the work he’s done to make this possible.”

Arbroath’s full pre-season programme reads—Keith (h) Friday, July 11, Edinburgh City (a) Saturday 12, Carnoustie Panmure (a) Friday 18, Sunderland (h) Saturday 19, Dundee United (h) Wednesday 23.