Sunderland apologise to fans follow new signage in bar

Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus says he was "disgusted" after a bar at the Stadium of Light was redecorated with Newcastle slogans.

The Black Cats Bar, to be used by away fans, was furnished with the signage for Saturday's FA Cup third-round tie.

"I regret to have let you down," said Louis-Dreyfus.

The slogans, which have since been removed after Sunderland admitted a "serious error in judgement", included "keep the black and white flying high".

"I would like to apologise to everyone associated with Sunderland AFC for the events that have unfolded today," added Frenchman Louis-Dreyfus.

"Like our supporters I was disgusted and hurt by the pictures circulating online of the inappropriate signs that have now been ripped down.

"I take full responsibility for every decision that is taken by the employees of our club and you have my word that I will personally make sure that we make the necessary changes required to improve because it is clear there are many areas where we need to be better."

Further images of the bar, which is being used for hospitality for Newcastle supporters, showed signs including "we are united" and "cheer up Peter Reid" - a reference to a chant sung by Magpies fans about the former Sunderland manager.

In an earlier statement after widespread criticism from fans online, Sunderland said the club "acknowledges that a serious error in judgement was made in relation to Black Cats Bar earlier this afternoon".

"We apologise to our fans for the understandable concern they have fairly voiced in response and this sentiment is shared by the club's ownership group and board of directors, who have requested an immediate review is undertaken to determine how this process unfolded," the club added.