Michael Beale's family thanks Sunderland fans for 'touching' gesture

Sunderland supporters showed their class against Plymouth, and it has struck a real chord with Michael Beale and his family.

Michael Beale’s sister-in-law has thanked Sunderland fans for their show of support of her cancer-stricken daughter Poppy.

This week, Beale revealed on Instagram that his 4-year-old niece Poppy was again receiving treatment for leukaemia for the second time in her short life.

Sunderland fans responded with a quickly-organised round-of-applause for Poppy in the fourth-minute of their 3-1 win over Plymouth, with Beale noticeably touched by it on the touchline.

Sunderland 3-1 Plymouth: Player ratings as Black Cats battle back to win

Afterwards, sister-in-law went onto the Sunderland AFC fans Facebook Group after the game to express her own appreciation and gratitude.

“Hello all,” she said to start her post. “This is Poppy’s mum here. Michael Beale’s sister-in-law.

“We’ve just seen the response from all supporters at the game. We are so touched.

#SAFC fans. The very best. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/SKaApRPT7c

— Michael Graham (@Capt_Fishpaste) February 10, 2024

“Thank you all. It’s very touching to see you all behind us and behind Mike too. Lots of love, from all the family.”

It was another positive step in the growing relationship between Sunderland and Michael Beale after a very tough start. 

---

READ MORE SUNDERLAND NEWS

• Sunderland contract situation: Who is nearing the end of their current deal?
• Top Ten: Sunderland's best ever January signings
• Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham names two former Sunderland players as his heroes
• Jordan Willis and seven other Sunderland careers ruined by injury
• Sell to thrive, not sell to survive: The Sunderland 'model' explained - in their own words
• Luke O'Nien and eight other Sunderland players who successfully changed positions