Stewart Donald issues message as Sunderland near Stadium of Light sell-out for Bradford clash
The Black Cats have urged supporters to snap up tickets for the festive fixture as they aimed to beat an initial target of 40,000, set by executive director Charlie Methven.
That target was surpassed several days ago as Sunderland set a new record for the highest-ever third tier attendance since the division re-branded to League One.
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Hide AdBut fans have continued to flock to the Stadium of Light for tickets, and chairman Donald confirmed this morning that 45,500 tickets had been sold for the highly-anticipated clash.
Such a figure is one of the biggest seen on Wearside in recent years, and means the club is rapidly approaching a sell-out.
The crowd is set to be the largest since the Black Cats' 2-2 draw with Liverpool in January 2017 - a game which attracted 46,494 fans.
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Hide AdJust 1,900 tickets remain in home areas, while there are 500 tickets available for visiting supporters from Bradford.
That has left Donald hoping that the home ends of the stadium will be sold-out.
Ahead of the game, the Sunderland chief tweeted: "For those @SunderlandAFC asking for a last update I believe 45500 tickets were sold pre match.
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Hide Ad"2400 are left on the gate for purchase including around 500 away tickets so if there is a decent roll up the home end will be sold out."
Tickets are available for today's game on cash turnstiles, but supporters are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Those collecting tickets are also asked by the club to leave plenty of time to pick-up their tickets, as queues are expected at the Stadium of Light ticket office.