The vehicle will be used by the club’s staff for local visits around Sunderland, and was handed over by senior vice president of Nissan Europe, Trevor Mann, ahead of its Barclays Premier League match against Wigan on Saturday.

SAFC Chief Executive Margaret Byrne said: ‘Sunderland AFC is a proud part of the Wearside business community and we are delighted at the ongoing success of Nissan’s local plant. They are a key employer in our region and have a large number of Sunderland fans amongst the workforce. So the success of Nissan also has a positive effect on the football club.

‘The LEAF is at the forefront of green technology and we are delighted to be showcasing such global innovation with a truly local connection.’