The CAT

03/07/2024

FIXTURE UPDATE :
Sheff Wed and Middlesbrough games selected for live broadcast

Two of Sunderland AFC’s fixtures in August and September have been selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports.

Initially scheduled to take place on Saturday 17 August, Régis Le Bris’ side will now host Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday 18 August (KO 12 noon).

Following that, the Wear-Tees clash was initially scheduled to take place at 3pm on Saturday 21 September, and will now kick off at the earlier time of 12.30pm on the same day.

Ticketing information for both fixtures will be released in due course.

The League is committed to greater parity in the number of times that Clubs are selected for TV coverage across all competitions, with Clubs set to feature more than 20 times per season on Sky Sports.

For more details visit here: https://safc.com/news/team-news/2024/july/two-fixtures-moved-for-sky-sports

16/06/2024

Happy Father's Day from everyone at The Cat

14/06/2024

NEW: Langstaff links with Sunderland

Journalist Darren Witcoop says that Notts County striker Macaulay Langstaff, who scored 29 goals in all competitions for Notts County last season, has ‘admirers’ in the Championship.

Witcoop links Sunderland in the post, naming Swansea City as one of the teams ‘watching developments’ this summer.

Langstaff, 27, has been linked with Sunderland in the past. He was heavily linked with a move away from Notts County in January but Witcoop said that Championship clubs were unsure if he could make the step up from League Two.

Notts County finished in 14th place of the League Two table last season, but Langstaff claimed the Golden Boot award with 28 league goals and five assists.

12/06/2024

NEW: Neil turns down Sunderland offer.

According to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie, Dan Neil has now rejected Sunderland’s first contract offer. He wrote on X: “Dan Neil has rejected Sunderland’s first new contract offer, but understand talks between club & player are ongoing. relaxed about the situation as the midfielder still has two years left on his current deal. But without doubt, one of the club’s prize assets.” Dan Neil not signing a new contract isn’t the end of the world, as he still has two years remaining on his contract.

However, that isn’t really the point. Neil will likely look to wait to see who the Black Cats appoint too, while his future could well be decided by next summer depending on how next season goes. But Sunderland could also be in big trouble if a Premier League club catch wind of his situation and choose to launch a bid for him in the coming months, at which point they may struggle to keep hold of him.

Bad news, Black Cats.

12/06/2024

NEW: Sunderland have Heckingbottom as backup for Rosenior as he has now chosen Burnley

Sunderland have clear back-up manager now the Liam Rosenior pursuit has fallen through, reports Sunderland AFC News. Earlier this year, Sunderland were strongly linked with former Sheffield United and Leeds United manager Paul Heckignbottom. The 46-year-old is out of work after leaving Sheffield United during the 2023/24 campaign, and was said to be Sunderland’s no.1 manager target in March. It was claimed that Louis-Dreyfus and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman were both fans of Heckingbottom after he guided the Blades to promotion from the Championship in 2023. His links to the Sunderland job have gone cold somewhat; most recently, Heckingbottom was linked with the Plymouth Argyle job, which Wayne Rooney has since landed. Heckingbottom is one of the very few names liked by Sunderland and still on the market.

Opinions on Hecky, Sunderland fans?

11/06/2024

NEW: Forson turns down Sunderland

Omari Forson has turned down Sunderland in favour of a move to Italian side AC Monza, it was rumoured that the former Manchester United attacker was in talks with the Mackems but decided a move abroad would be a better fit for his career. A big blow for the summer transfer plans for the Black Cats.

Opinions?

10/06/2024

NEW: Sunderland will have to fork out a "hefty compensation" for Marti Cifuentes

The 41-year-old is thought to be of interest to Sunderland, though journalist Alan Nixon has now reported they will have to pay a ‘hefty’ compensation fee to lure him in. Nixon wrote in his Patreon: “Sunderland will have to pay a hefty compensation fee for QPR boss Marti Cifuentes. “The Black Cats have switched their managerial search around dramatically in the last few days with the Spaniard a favourite of leading figures at the club. “But Rangers will ask for a six figure fee for Cifuentes and Sunderland would have no option but to fork out.”

Opinions on this?

10/06/2024

NEW: Chris Rigg interest

Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle, Man City and Liverpool are among the clubs chasing Rigg, who can’t sign a professional contract until he turns 17 years old next week. With Rigg wanted by a high number of European giants, his future at the Stadium of Light remains in doubt. Recent reports have claimed that his time at the club could depend on who Sunderland appoint as their next manager, while he is expected to hold talks with them before he makes his decision.

Thoughts on this?

05/06/2024

Make your Father’s Day one to remember!

I’m sure your dad deserves something extra special so tell us why, and you could win him a luxury food and drink hamper packed with gourmet goodies!

From delicious snacks to fine wines, Ziggy’s has it all. All you need to do is share your story and make this Father’s Day unforgettable!

Enter now below and simply tell us why your dad deserves this amazing prize from Ziggy's Luxury Gifts and Hampers and we will do the rest.

That Important Link: https://thecatuk.com/fathers-day/

Have a Happy Father’s Day from everyone at The Cat and at Ziggy’s. https://ziggys-luxury-gifts.ueniweb.com/

Make your Father’s Day one to remember Why not give your dad the ultimate treat with Ziggy’s Luxury Gifts and Hampers! I’m sure your dad deserves something extra special so tell us why, and you could win him a luxury food and drink hamper packed with gourmet goodies! From delicious snacks to f...

31/05/2024

Amazon are having a few technical issues with playing The CAT through their smart speakers. We apologise for this and we are working with their boffins to get it rectified ASAP.

Here are other ways you can listen in the meantime:
https://thecatuk.com/how-to-listen/

30/05/2024

How about some Hollywood Royalty for our Friday North East Summer Breakfast show ?

Will West End, Broadway and Hollywood superstar Adam Garcia do ?

Adam joins Daz on the North East Summer Breakfast from 7am to chat about his career, his life and his new show - starring as Caractacus Potts in a new production of the most fantasmagorical musical of all time, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, when it flies into Newcastle Theatre Royal from Tue 4 – Sat 8 Jun 2024.

Don't miss this one - especially as Daz is a huge secret Coyote Ugly fan - well it's not a secret anymore! You can listen in from 7am and don't forget it's his Friday Jukebox - you say it - he plays it - 0330 043 2002, start your message with Jukebox.

I think this will be a show to remember with Daz. On DAB Radio, Smart Speakers and www.thecatuk.com

27/05/2024

Don't miss this one - our Daz in Conversation with The UK’s No.1 vocal harmony group and original X-Factor stars to celebrate a double decade in the limelight with a spectacular anniversary show and new album.

G4 have been wowing audiences with their incredible harmonies and stunning vocals ever since appearing on the first series of the X Factor in 2004. Their unique blend of classical training alongside a pioneering approach to popular classics has seen them hailed as the ‘Kings of Popera’ and earned them a legion of loyal fans all over the world.

This is their most extensive tour to date, which will see them fondly look back upon their journey, whilst also propel them into the next chapter of their groundbreaking career.

Catch them with Daz on Tuesday morning from 7am-11am and catch them LIVE when they are back in North East in Whitley Bay and Whitby - https://www.g4official.com/2024-20th-anniversary-tour

On The Cat Radio - On DAB Radio, Smart Speakers and www.thecatuk.com

26/05/2024

Good morning, North East! 🌅 Ready to make your summer mornings unforgettable? Join us for The North East Summer Breakfast Show, every weekday from 7 AM to 11 AM ON THE CAT!
Get ready for a summer of fun with:

🎉 Exciting Competitions with amazing summer prizes!
😂 Hilarious Games & Quizzes to keep you entertained and laughing all morning!
📣 Listeners’ Stories – share your favorite memories and plans with us!
🏖 Weather Updates so you can plan your perfect day out in the sun!
🎤 Live Music Performances from local bands and artists to start your day with a groove!
🎶 Feel-Good Tunes – the best Summer Music Mix across the North East

Whether you’re lounging in the garden, commuting to work, or getting ready for a day of summer fun, The North East Summer Breakfast Show has got you covered!

📅 When? Every weekday morning,7 AM - 11AM
📻 Where? On DAB Radio, Smart Speakers (Just ask your Alexa to Enable The Skill - The Cat Radio - then ask her to Play The Cat Radio) and online at www.thecatuk.com

Don’t miss out on the most vibrant and entertaining way to start your summer days with Daz. Set your alarms, grab your shades, and tune in to The North East Summer Breakfast Show – where every morning feels like a holiday! 🌞🎶🏖

21/05/2024

Sad news out of the Birmingham camp today that former Sunderland AFC boss Tony Mowbray has unfortunately had to step down as Birmingham City boss due to recovery. Get well soon Mogga.

Find out more about his reasonings and what the future holds here:

Middlesbrough legend Tony Mowbray was forced to take a medical break earlier in the season

20/05/2024

Don't miss Daz in conversation with the amazing Stephen Tompkinson on Tuesday 21st May to talk about his new show - Drop The Dead Donkey: The Reawakening! which is coming to the Newcastle Theatre Royal from 21st to 25th May.

Join Stephen with Daz from 9am on DAB Radio, on Smart Speakers and at www.thecatuk.com

10/05/2024

Craig Hignett, Lee Clark & Daz Williams chew the NE footy fat. Call the lads: 0330 043 2002.

06/05/2024

Join Daz on Tuesday morning as he returns from the long weekend with his very special guest - Brooke Vincent.
Star of Coronation Street since for 20 years, Brooke is up in the North East this week starring in Kay Mellor's 'The Syndicate' at Newcastle Theatre Royal from Wed 8 – Sat 11 May.

Starring alongside fellow soap legends Gaynor Faye and Samantha Giles, The Syndicate tells the story of five supermarket workers whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat.

Will a share of the jackpot make their dreams come true or their nightmares a reality? One thing’s for certain, the win of a lifetime will change the lives, loves and relationships of the syndicate members forever.

Join Daz and Brooke plus all the other Mid-morning fun from 9am on The Cat. On DAB Radio, On Smart Speakers and at www.thecatuk.com

03/05/2024

Craig Hignett, Lee Clark & Daz Williams chew the NE footy fat. CAll the lads: 0330 043 2002.

27/04/2024

A tribute to The King!

The Sunderland Echo's tribute Roar pod on The CAT tomorrow morning at 7am.

25/04/2024

DON'T MISS THIS ONE! Join Daz on Friday morning with his very special guest, the hilarious Seann Walsh. Seann is bringing his new tour show 'Back from the Bed' to the North East, playing at the Tyne Theatre & Opera House on 17th May and at The Scarborough Spa on 24th May.

Daz has had so many amazing guests on his show, but actually, Seann is by far, one of the BEST! Tune in from 9am on The CAT on DAB Radio, Smart Speakers and thecatuk.com

08/04/2024

https://open.spotify.com/episode/43RJqGtSlTsnDeDbfzfcUC?si=VTlY34RXRoGSMKoxPbRWFA
Join Daz and his three special guests that make up the New Monday Panel. This week Noah in Spain, Ted in Cyprus and Jon in Scarbados give their thoughts on the new releases from Hozier, Take That, Benson Boone and that song from Beyonce. What will be their Record of the Week? I'll give you a clue - Not Beyonce!

03/04/2024

Join Daz with his very special guest on Thursday 4th April from 9am - comedian, writer and award winning podcaster Maisie Adam.

Maisie is coming up to the North East in the Autumn on her tour - 'Appraisal' 06/10/2024 Newcastle - Tyne Theatre & Opera House

Listen to Daz from 9am Thursday morning, on DAB Radio, Smart Speakers and online.

28/03/2024

𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗨𝗦𝗘 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗧𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗬 👏🏼

As many of you may know, Sunderland lost one of its most loyal supporters this week with the passing of Tommy Lynn, former editor The Wearside Roar and a well known face home and away watching the Lads since the 1970s.

Tommy was 66 when he passed, so we’re calling on our fellow fans to clap for Tommy in the 66th minute of Monday’s game vs Blackburn.

Please spread the word family ❤️

ALS: SAFC Fanzine

28/03/2024

2 tickets for the Blackburn game on Monday up for grabs thanks to the Shipyard Cat podcast.

In the 99/00 season, Super Kevin Phillips grabbed the Premier League Golden Boot award by scoring how many goals? 25? 30?
or 35 league goals? Put your answers below, 1 lucky winner will take the tickets.

You can catch the Shipyard Cat podcast with the boys every Monday at 7pm & Friday's at 8pm on The CAT Radio. DAB radio, smart speakers, online and apps.

22/03/2024

NOW on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-cat-the-red-the-toon/id1737438207

18/03/2024

Join Daz on Tuesday morning 9-11am, for a chat with very funny comedian, radio presenter, and all round top man, Charlie Baker.
Charlie is coming up to the North East performing at the The Stand Comedy Club, Newcastle on April 8th 2024.

https://www.thestand.co.uk/performance/15992/charlie-baker-24-hour-pasty-people/20240408/newcastle

Do not miss this one! On DAB Radio, Smart Speakers and www.thecatuk.com

THIS SHOW WAS RESCHEDULED FROM 21ST NOVEMBER 2023Wasson? Award-winning comedian, tap dancer and Talksport radio host Charlie Baker brings an hour of 'genuine...

17/03/2024

Teds Take (personal opinion time!):

They say its the hope that kills you. They certainly used to...

Yes, we take a point from that QPR game, which mathematically "stops the rot"; however for me, it confirms we're still very much on an alarming path to mediocrity.

Not a single shot on target, against a club that's been fighting relegation since the start of the campaign, at home, is frankly dire at best; and shameful, if we're being honest.

The young side that sparkled with pace and elegance in attack, and had a striker that could finish their chances has slowly but surely come undone. With no successor of any note being able to step in for Roberts, Clarke, and of course Stewart (who never had a solid back-up or replacement for seasons), the stand-in front 3 look like cheap and nasty imitations.
Hemir, at this point, isn't the answer to any question. His performance was typified in yesterday's game by a rare counter-attacking opportunity, when he carried the ball around 15 yards, saw he had another 30 to go; and rather than get his head down and run at the solitary defender; completely lost all ability and confidence, and predictably played a backward pass....an unwanted but seemingly more regular theme for the side.
Mundle (the apparent replacement for the soon-to-be-sold-to-execute-the-club-model Clarke) does show signs of ability, however he's a way off being Championship-ready just yet. Ba....not a winger. Its a waste of a starting berth. Never looks comfortable on the left and loses the ball too easily.

I could pick holes in that side with every performance (aside from Patto who rescued a point). but we have to address the lack of direction from the touchline. As good a day-to-day coach as Dodds "may" be; tactically and motivational-wise, I see nothing on the field that suggests he should be anywhere near first team duties. The pressers are becoming as predictable as his football, and the broken-record of "well we take the positives" just isn't convincing anyone. Those 2 wins he oversaw before Beales disastrous reign? Mowbray's team, Mowbray's game plans. Let's not kid ourselves here.

Speakmans puppet or not, he's not right for the role, and needs to be replaced, for me, BEFORE the end of the season. The decision to part ways with Mogga proves one thing. The grass most certainly isn't greener. In fact, the grass is actually greener where you water it.

Enjoy St Paddy's Day everyone; ideal chance to drown our sorrows, and throw our opinions around the pub for next season and what the hell the club should do next!



Ted

15/03/2024

Darren Williams is leading the 3 Legends' voice as usual on the radio tonight at 6pm. Give the lads a call on The CAT Radio and have your say - 0330 043 2002

DAB radio across Wearside - smart speakers and online at www.thecatuk.com

14/03/2024

Bad news Sunderland fans, defender Jenson Seelt has picked up a season ending injury in the game against Southampton. The length of the injury is still unknown with tests to decide whether surgery is required.

How big of a miss will he be?

Sunderland AFC defender Jenson Seelt has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2023-24 season.