The 5 Greatest Sunderland Captains of All Time
Being captain of Sunderland isn’t just about donning an armband—it’s about embodying the fierce pride of a football-mad city. From the gritty days at Roker Park to the roaring stands of the Stadium of Light, captains have always played a central role in shaping the club’s identity. Some led by sheer presence, others through thunderous tackles or quiet determination.
In this list of the ‘greatest Sunderland captains of all time’, we’re not simply celebrating great players—we’re spotlighting the ones who truly led from the front. Loyalty, leadership, longevity, and silverware—they all count.
Being a Sunderland captain is about more than tactics or trophies. It’s about embodying the spirit of a passionate, hard-working city. The five names on this list weren’t just good players—they were leaders who carried the hopes of thousands every time they stepped onto the pitch. From club legends to local heroes, these captains helped shape the soul of Sunderland AFC. Here are the 5 greatest Sunderland captains of all time.
5. Bobby Kerr – The Little General Who Made History
Bobby Kerr might have been diminutive in stature, but he led like a giant. Nicknamed “The Little General,” Kerr famously captained Sunderland to one of the most iconic upsets in English football history—the 1973 FA Cup final win over Leeds United. It was Sunderland’s first FA Cup triumph since 1937 and remains a cornerstone of the club’s identity.
Kerr made over 400 appearances for Sunderland between 1966 and 1979, becoming a beloved figure on Wearside. His leadership, tenacity, and unshakable belief in his teammates helped etch that cup win into football folklore.
Trophies as captain:
FA Cup – 1973
4. Charlie Hurley – The Player of the Century
Ask any Sunderland supporter of a certain era, and they’ll tell you about Charlie Hurley, “The King.” Voted Sunderland’s “Player of the Century” in 1979, Hurley was a colossus at the back during his time at Roker Park (1957–1969). While he didn’t lift major silverware as captain, his impact was no less historic.
Hurley led Sunderland to promotion to the First Division in 1964, anchoring the defense with strength, timing, and unmatched leadership. His aura and connection with fans remain legendary.
Trophies as captain:
Second Division runners-up (promotion) – 1963–64
3. Stan Anderson – The Quiet General
A unique figure in North East football, Stan Anderson is the only man to have captained Sunderland, Newcastle United, and Middlesbrough. But it was at Sunderland, where he started his career, that he truly made his mark as a composed and classy leader.
Anderson led the team through the early 1960s, a transitional period for the club. Known for his intelligence on the pitch and calm temperament, he captained Sunderland during their promotion push and was widely respected by teammates and fans alike.
Trophies as captain:
Second Division runners-up (promotion) – 1963–64
2. Kevin Ball – The Warrior Leader
When you think of passion, grit, and total commitment, Kevin Ball is the name that echoes through the Stadium of Light. A true warrior in midfield, Ball captained Sunderland through the First Division title win in 1995–96, helping the club return to the Premier League.
What set Ball apart was not just his fearless tackling or tireless work ethic—it was his emotional connection to the badge. Even after his playing days, he remained involved in various roles, including caretaker manager, always stepping up when Sunderland needed him.
Trophies as captain:
First Division (now Championship) – 1995–96
1. Horatio “Raich” Carter – The Greatest of All Time
No one has led Sunderland to more glory than Raich Carter. A local lad born in Hendon, Carter was the complete footballer—elegant, intelligent, and clinical. Under his captaincy, Sunderland achieved the club’s only First Division title in 1935–36 and followed it up by winning the FA Cup in 1937.
Carter was more than a captain—he was a symbol of Sunderland’s golden era. His leadership, football IQ, and influence made him a generational figure. The fact that no Sunderland captain since has matched his trophy haul only cements his place at the top.
Trophies as captain:
First Division – 1935–36
FA Cup – 1937
Honourable Mentions: John O’Shea, Gary Bennett, Len Shackleton, and Lee Cattermole—leaders who left their mark even if they didn’t top the trophy charts.