Abandoned former Premier League club’s stadium is now site of 130 houses after team moves to England’s lucky arena

SUNDERLAND’S old Roker Park stadium is now the site of 130 houses – 26 years after it was demolished.

The Black Cats played at the ground for 99 years, with the final season being Sunderland’s first in the Premier League in 1996-97.

Sunderland played at Roker Park for 99 yearsCredit: Getty

The departure from the ground was emotional for fansCredit: PA

Demolition on the old ground began in 1997Credit: PA

There are 130 houses on the Roker Park siteCredit: Getty

Road names reflect the history of the areaCredit: Getty

Demolition work began following the conclusion of the Prem season and Roker Park was replaced by a housing estate.

There are 130 homes on the site now but there are remnants of the old ground to remind fans of their former home.

One road is named after Roker Park’s famous Clock Stand while others are called Midfield Drive and Goalmouth Close.

And in the location of the old pitch stands Promotion Close Park.

Sunderland’s departure from Roker Park was an emotional move for fans, but the Stadium of Light has become a new home.

The 48,707-capacity ground is one of the biggest in the country and has hosted England matches over the years.

It is on the 14-stadium shortlist to host games at Euro 2028 – and the Three Lions have an impressive record there.

In fact, England have won three out of three at the Stadium of Light.

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The most recent victory came against Australia in 2016 with Marcus Rashford and Wayne Rooney scoring in a 2-1 win.

The Three Lions also beat Belgium at the ground in 1999 and overcame Turkey in 2003.

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