Lynden Gooch made his return to the Stadium of Light recently in Sunderland's 3-1 win over Stoke City - a day of mixed emotions for the former Black Cat.

Gooch made the familiar walk into the place he called home for the best part of two decades following his move to Sunderland from America as a young scholar. 

Gooch, a fan favourite on Wearside, went on to make almost 250 appearances as a pro for the club before the end of an era last summer after the club sanctioned a deal for Gooch to move to Championship rivals Stoke.

The American still had one year remaining on his deal at the Stadium of Light having penned a two-year extension following an emotional return to the Championship in the League One play-off final in 2022. "If this is it, then what a way to go out," Gooch has said following the club's 2-0 win over Wycombe Wanderers. 

But Gooch still had plenty to offer upon the club's return to the Championship as he played a pivotal role in guiding Sunderland to the play-offs last season which included captaining the side.

Gooch bid an emotional farewell to Sunderland in the summer after agreeing a move to Stoke: "It's been tough to say goodbye but it's, unfortunately, come to an end," he said.

"I've had a great time here, with some fantastic memories and some tough times as well - but that's what makes the good times even better. But I've been able to go out on my terms after a good season last year."

Gooch linked up with former Sunderland boss Alex Neil at Stoke and has been a regular for the Potters this season - including the recent visit to the Stadium of Light where he was met with a warm applause from the home fans.

The American was the last to leave the field after the game as he took in the Stadium of Light atmosphere one more time.

Prior to his return, however, Gooch sat down for an exclusive interview with We Are Sunderland where he reflected on his prolonged spell with the club and what he described as the 'best day' of his professional life as well as much more which you can view here: