A STRUGGLING North-East football club has turned down the chance to host one of the world's biggest rock bands on its home turf.

Sunderland AFC yesterday confirmed they rejected the possibility of hosting the Rolling Stones at the Stadium of Light in June after being approached by the band's promoter.

In a comment from the club, a spokesperson said the opportunity was given the thumbs down due to the proposed date being too close to the start of the season.

They said: “SAFC was approached about the possibility of holding the concert however, the date proposed would not have allowed enough time to complete pitch renovations ahead of the 2018-19 season.

"Both parties explored earlier dates but were unfortunately unable to find a solution.”

Last year the club, which has in the past welcomed the likes of Take That, Oasis and Beyonce, announced no gigs would be held in the summer of 2017 - following Sunderland City Council's move to pull its financial support.

The club has said there will be no gigs at all this year.

News of the missed opportunity was met with mixed reaction from those understanding the club's decision to put football first and those criticising the club for turning away a lucrative event.

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer could not resist having a pop at Sunderland fans' expense, tweeting: "That’s a shame. They might have actually seen a good performance for once!"

Meanwhile, Paul Dobson, of Sunderland supporter fanzine A Love Supreme, said he understood the decision while accepted the team were in a bad way.

"Because the things are going on the football field, from the outside it looks like a big income opportunity and a big thing for the region," he said.

"The thing is the most important thing is the football - and unfortunately they aren't getting that right."