FANS will have a first chance to see Sunderland's new Premier League home strip, for next season, in the final game this term, at the Stadium of Light.

The new-look kit, the latest variation of the club's famous red and white stripes, is officially launched on Wednesday May 7, and is available at club stores the following day.

But the team will sport the new strip as the Black Cats host third-placed Arsenal in the eagerly anticipated season finale, on Sunday May 11.

Sunderland are safe in the knowledge that they will be playing in the Premier League again next season, after sealing their survival thanks to the 3-2 home victory in the Wear-Tees derby, against Middlesbrough, last Saturday (APR 26).

Manager Roy Keane, an admirer of the new kit, said: "I know how proud Sunderland fans are of their traditional red and white shirts and you should never underestimate how important a good kit is to a side.

"I really like our new strip. I'm sure the players will be as proud as ever to play in it and the fans will be to wear it."

Chairman Niall Quinn said: "The Arsenal game will be a great opportunity for us the say thank you to the fans for the amazing backing they have given us this season.

"I know many fans will want to be among the first, along with the players to have our new shirt for the occasion.

"It'll be great to see fans wearing the new 2008/09 shirt as we say goodbye to this season and look ahead with excitement to the next one."

Supporters can pre-ordering via safc.com, or the mail-order hotline. on 0845-671 1973, or by calling in to any official club store.