Just posted on another thread but as this is specifically for Tributes: One of my fondest ever memories was drinking with my mates (7 of us) on a Friday night in Sedgefield and walking into the Black Lion at the top of the front street. SNQ was there with his Missus and, being a slightly inebriated mackem, I decided to go and talk to him - he was so unassuming - such a nice bloke, he bought 2 rounds of drinks for me and my mates and sat and talked football with us for about 2 hours - and he knew his football. He is a legend - no other word to describe him. Loved loyally among football fans of SAFC and many other clubs. Thanks for fixing the ship that was sinking and stabilising our (and your) club. I thinnk forever the tune of "Niall Quinn's Disco Pants" will ring around the Stadium of Light (or, if we're talking about renaming it - the Niall Quinn stadium???)
Personally I'm gutted but good luck to him. His contribution to our club has been immeasurable. A sad sad day for SAFC.
I am so emotional. I can't believe I feel this strongly. All the best SNR. I hope you're truly happy for the rest of your life because you saved my/our club. Thank you seems not nearly enough. We must NEVER forget.
Visionary, leader, ambassador, gentleman. A Wearside legend who's departure had to come once he had transitioned out of the chairman's role. We owe him a huge huge debt of thanks for all he has done for our beloved club. I now wish him and his family only the best. Always to be alegend on Wearside; thank you Niall
I know what you mean mate...He's not popped his clogs or anything. I shouldn't be feeling like this at my age.
What about the time he paid for taxis to get stranded fans back home? A Sunderland legend. Always will be. Good luck Niall and thanks!
All the best Niall Quinn. I know he was a mackem, but there's no denying that he was a great role model for chairmen everywhere.
It is a big loss for us but he did say he would leave after 5 years and stayed for 6. Anyway thanks to him we are now in a stronger position than we were 6 years ago. I hope he doesn't completely cut his ties and we will see him at the SOL from time to time not as member of the board but as a supporter. I am sure if he does come back he will get the reception from the fans he deserves.
Apart from being a legendary pairing with SKP His true personal legend staus started for me when he handed over the cash from his testimonial, not to mention his putting the club back on it's feet
I remember seeing him in Marks and Spencers at the Metrocentre when he was still playing and, despite being a young headstrong Geordie, went over to talk to him and get his autograph. He seemed a really nice bloke, as for what he's done for Sunderland, that speaks for itself. Can't see it affecting them on the pitch of course, but how do the the Mackems here think it will change things behind the scenes?
Apart from having someone at the club who knows the game from a professional players point of view I can't see his leaving making that much of a difference because I think Niall has ensured we have a professional and competent team to run the club before he made the decision to leave. Anyway I am sure he will always be available to advise the board members should it be needed.
What can I say? No words can describe for me what this very special man has done for our club and the City of Sunderland. From a player scoring goals to donating his testimonal money (unheard of at the time) to Sunderland hospital to becoming chairman and taking a club on its knees to where it is today - I will never ever forget Sir Niall Quinn. For me he took over the reins as the most respected man in football following the death of Sir Bobby Robson. When he speaks everyone listens. Niall - enjoy your time with your family and your new business ventures. THANKYOU, THANKYOU, THANKYOU for everything you have done for Sunderland.
It's a shame you're unable to spell his name correctly. I know he will do a good job at Manchester City - Mr Sunderland indeed. That said, I regard Sunderland football club as a 'big' club now... Niall Quinn has moved the club forward and the appointment of Martin O'Neill will be his final legacy. Just need your fans to turn up now... "Get out of the ****ing pub!" Welcome to the big time, Mackems.
Syd - here's a link for a petition: http://www.change.org/petitions/sunderland-afc-name-the-new-south-stand-the-niall-quinn-stand# Do you want to add it to the OP
