Andy Lane, Managing Director, Regional Security, said: “We’re delighted to have secured this prestigious contract and very much look forward to providing an effective security solution.

“The football club is an integral part of the community in the region and so ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those visiting both the stadium and academy, as well as the security of the buildings themselves is a key responsibility.

“Our experience securing major sporting venues such as Hampden Park, and the All England Lawn Tennis Club, will be a major benefit in ensuring the success of this contract.”

Paul Weir, Health and Safety Manager, Sunderland AFC, said: “We’re committed to ensuring the safety of players, fans and visitors to the stadium and academy, and are confident that the service G4S provides will match those commitments.”

The contract will see G4S providing 15 officers, and will initially run to August 2010. G4S will be replacing Chubb as the incumbent provider.