Sunderland legend Kevin Ball has made a welcome return to the Stadium of Light as Club Ambassador, following his reappointment by chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus after leaving the role in 2022.
The club confirmed Ball’s comeback during a recent supporters’ meeting, where the announcement was met with enthusiasm from fans who continue to hold him in high regard as one of Sunderland’s defining figures of the modern era.
“The Club confirmed Kevin Ball’s return to the Stadium of Light in the role of Club Ambassador, and this move was welcomed by fans in attendance,” Sunderland said in a statement released ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Ball’s return marks the latest chapter in a three-decade association with the Black Cats. The former captain made 389 appearances and scored 27 goals in all competitions, leading Sunderland through some of their most memorable eras. Renowned for his tenacity, leadership, and commitment, he embodied the grit and determination long cherished by supporters on Wearside.
Born in Hastings, Ball began his career as a central defender before moving into midfield, where he made his greatest impact. He featured in the 1992 FA Cup Final against Liverpool and was twice named Sunderland’s Player of the Year, in 1990–91 and 1996–97. He also played a key role in two First Division title-winning campaigns, in 1996 and 1999, cementing his reputation as one of the club’s true modern icons.
After retiring, Ball moved into coaching and player development, twice taking charge as caretaker manager — first in 2006 after Mick McCarthy’s departure, and again in 2013 following Paolo Di Canio’s exit. His leadership helped steady the team during turbulent periods, earning respect both inside and outside the dressing room.
Although Ball expressed interest in the permanent job in 2006, then-chairman Niall Quinn, newly installed after the Drumaville Consortium takeover, opted to appoint Roy Keane to lead a wider rebuild. Ball instead returned to youth development, where he played a crucial role in shaping future first-team talent.
Promoted in 2012 under Martin O’Neill to senior professional development coach, he oversaw the under-21s and reserves, and again served briefly as caretaker in 2013, guiding Sunderland to a League Cup win over Peterborough in his first match before Gus Poyet took charge.
Ball went on to represent Sunderland as Club Ambassador until his departure in 2022. Now, under Louis-Dreyfus’s ownership, his reappointment marks the return of one of the club’s most respected figures — a leader who continues to embody the values and spirit of Sunderland AFC.