A host of top football names including Ally McCoist, Niall Quinn and Peter Beardsley are turning out for a former Carlisle United player's testimonial this month.

John Cooke, who played for the Blues in the 1980s, is being recognised with a special game.

It will take place at 1st Cloud Arena, the home of South Shields FC and has been arranged to celebrate Cooke's long service at Sunderland, where he played for six years and went on to have a long stint as kit manager.

Former Carlisle United manager Ian Atkins is among the individuals lined up to attend along with ex-Blues players Beardsley, Gary Bennett, Craig Russell and Darren Holloway.

Others involved include Kevin Phillips, Lee Clark, Steve Harper, Wes Brown, Lee Cattermole, Michael Gray, Marco Gabbiadini and Jack Ross.

Cooke will manage one of the teams with Peter Reid in charge of the other - while boxing legend Frank Bruno will act as video assistant referee and co-commentator...

The former Blues player, who made more than 100 appearances for the Cumbrians from 1985-88, said on South Shields' website: “I am humbled by the event and wish to thank Peter Reid and [South Shields FC chairman] Geoff Thompson and his team for organising what looks set to be a fantastic day out.

“The response to this event from everyone has been overwhelming and given me a tremendous lift."

Niall Quinn described Cook as a "larger than life" part of the dressing room at Sunderland. "His impact was far greater than that of a kitman," he said.

Former BBC Radio Cumbria commentator Nick Barnes, who now covers Sunderland for BBC Newcastle, will be cOmmentating over the PA system.

The game will be held on Sunday, May 29.

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