Hilarious footage has emerged from Sunderland’s weekend clash with Walsall at the Stadium of Light involving one of the club’s pre-match flag bearers.

As they were waiting to welcome the teams onto the pitch, one of the sprinklers came on, drenching the poor fan.

But, admirably, he maintained his post and continued to wave the flag despite now looking considerably wetter and colder.

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However, it is possible that commitment only served to inspire his side as the Black Cats picked up a badly needed three points.

They fell behind in just the fourth minute with Josh Gordon firing the relegation threatened Sadlers into the lead, but Jack Ross’s side thought back.

Just after the half-hour mark, Lee Cattermole popped up at the back post to volley the home side level and drag them back into the game.

Sunderland were now well and top and after a host of good opportunities, they finally edged in front when Will Grigg converted Charlie Wyke’s lay-off.

The win takes them to within two points of second-placed Barnsley who could only draw with Doncaster Rovers on Friday night.

The verdict

They are a hardened bunch in Sunderland so it is no surprise to see the fan take his drenching so well.

He was well rewarded too with a crucial win, even if the performance still left a lot to be desired.