Sir Bob Murray has revealed that Sunderland have “some special things planned” for Wednesday’s historic Europa League opener, admitting that the club’s return to European football still feels almost unreal.

Sunderland will host AZ Alkmaar in their opening Europa League fixture, marking the first competitive European match to be played at the Stadium of Light. The occasion will also bring an end to a 53-year wait for continental football, with Sunderland’s previous European campaign coming in the Cup Winners’ Cup following their famous FA Cup triumph in 1973.

Murray, the former Sunderland chairman who played a key role in the club’s move from Roker Park to the Stadium of Light, is expected to attend another memorable night at the ground. After expressing his delight at Saturday’s performance against Arsenal, he believes Wednesday’s occasion could be even more special.

“I think so, because it’s a one-off at the moment. And obviously, I know they’ve got some special things planned for Wednesday,” Murray told local reporters ahead of the Europa League clash.

The former chairman was speaking in the build-up to the Foundation of Light’s 25th anniversary celebrations, with the charity set to mark the occasion with a gala dinner next month.

Murray also believes Sunderland’s return to Europe will have a significant impact beyond football, particularly for supporters who endured the club’s difficult years.

Asked what European football could mean for Sunderland as a city, he said: “Everything. It’s not got one downside, and everything’s upside. I’m pleased for the supporters because of what they have been through. It has been very testing.”

Wednesday’s match will create another historic chapter for the Stadium of Light, almost three decades after Sunderland left Roker Park. Murray admitted he never expected the ground to host European football when it was built.

“I knew it would host England. But I didn’t think… I’m living in a fantasy land. I’m away with it,” he said.

Asked whether the moment felt like a dream, Murray added: “Yes, I pinch myself, really. The whole thing, the profile for the city, everything. Everything was a win-win.”