As part of a special Thursday feature, former Sunderland forward Martin Smith has been sharing his picks for the hardest players to ever don the red and white. His countdown has sparked nostalgia and admiration for the no-nonsense footballers who left their mark — quite literally — on the pitch. Here, we take a closer look at two of Smith’s standout picks as the countdown nears its climax.
No. 3 – Gary Bennett: The Elegant Enforcer
Coming in third on Smith’s list is the ever-reliable centre-back Gary Bennett, a stalwart who featured in over 350 matches during his 11-year stay at Sunderland. Although known for his calmness and composure in possession, Bennett had a tough side that few dared to challenge.
“Gary was a stylish, classy defender — but if you crossed him, you’d know about it,” Smith told BBC Radio Newcastle. “I even checked with someone who played with him to see if my memory was right, and they confirmed it. He could really look after himself.”
Bennett’s ability to stand firm against some of the era’s most physical forwards earned him respect across the footballing spectrum. Smith added: “Back then, you’d be dealing with real bruisers up front — elbows, stamps, the lot — but Gary never backed down. He was rock solid.”
No. 2 – John Kay: The Red and White Tractor
Just ahead of Bennett, Smith chose John Kay, another cult hero whose aggressive playing style earned him both admiration and an unforgettable nickname.
“He got called ‘the red and white tractor’ during a match against Leeds United,” Smith recalled. “Peter Haddock had to come off the pitch, and Howard Wilkinson said it looked like he’d been run over by a tractor. That’s how visible the stud marks were on his chest.”
Smith also admitted that Kay’s fearsome reputation extended into the training ground. “Playing against him, even in practice matches, was intimidating,” he admitted. “Once, I nutmegged him. He warned me not to do it again, but I did. Next time I got the ball, he absolutely clattered me. Said he was going to break my legs if I tried it again.”
Who Tops the List?
While Bennett and Kay were clearly not to be trifled with, fans are left wondering who Martin Smith has crowned as Sunderland’s all-time toughest tackler. The top spot on this gritty leaderboard is still under wraps — but based on Smith’s storytelling so far, the number one choice is bound to be legendary.
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