Kyril Louis-Dreyfus' classy gesture to Sunderland supporters as he pledges 'success and sustainability'

The 23-year-old, who purchased a majority stake in the club last month, has quickly got to work on Wearside.

A restructure of the club’s operation will see a number of new roles created, while there has also been a shake-up at board level with Stewart Donald and Juan Sartori no longer directors – although they do retain minority shares.

In their place have come two trusted associates of the Louis-Dreyfus family in lawyer Igor Levin and financial officer Patrick Treuer.

And with optimism among fans high, Louis-Dreyfus has written to a number of supporters to thank them for their support in recent years.

The letter reads: “First and foremost, I hope that you and your loved ones are safe and well during this exceptionally challenging time for all of us.

"It is fair to say that the takeover process took longer than we anticipated; but I am incredibly grateful for the patience you have shown I have been overwhelmed by the support I have received.

"As a new chapter in Sunderland AFC’s history begins, I wanted to write to you personally ahead of our journey together.

"I’m sure you have many questions about what the future hold, but for now, I just want to say thank you.

"Throughout the past few years, you have placed your faith in the club during a time when it needed it most. I’m sure there have been occasions when it felt like the club turned its back on you, but your passion never faltered.

"Throughout good times and bad, you have been the one constant that this football club can always rely on.

"That support should never and will never be taken for granted.

"It’s important to be honest with you from the start. We have a long road ahead as we weather the pandemic, rebuild and recover.

"We will suffer setbacks and something things will not fall our way, but throughout this project, we will work with you and together, I truly believe we can bring success and sustainability to the club.”

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