THE architect of one of the greatest football upsets ever returned yesterday to the city that hailed him as a messiah.

Bob Stokoe left Blackpool in November 1972 to become manager of Sunderland AFC, then an ailing Second Division (equivalent of today's First Division) club.

But the following May he ensured his status as a Wearside legend by steering his side to a 1-0 triumph over mighty Leeds United at Wembley.

Leeds were the Manchester United of their day and were expected to cruise to their second successive FA Cup triumph, having beaten Arsenal 1-0 the year before.

But Sunderland, whose cup run had included wins over Manchester City and Arsenal, had other ideas.

An Ian Porterfield goal, and an incredible double save by keeper Jimmy Montgomery, secured a victory that is still rated one of Wembley's finest moments.

Mr Stokoe won a place in the nation's heart as he ran down the pitch in his trilby hat to embrace his heroic keeper at the final whistle.

Yesterday, the manager, whose reign ended in 1976, had his foot cast in glass at the National Glass Centre for an exhibition to be held in May to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the famous win.

Mr Stokoe, 72, who now lives in Northumberland and is in poor health, will be featured along with the players and coaching staff.

Two of the FA Cup-winning side, centre-half Dave Watson and inside-right Micky Horswill, had their feet cast in glass the previous day.

Mr Watson, who runs a sports sponsorship and promotions firm in his native Nottingham, went on to earn 85 caps for England and played for Manchester City, one of the teams Sunderland beat on their historic run.

He is looking forward to next year's anniversary celebrations. "I'm looking forward to all the get-togethers," he said.

Micky Horswill, from Annfield Plain in County Durham, came to prominence under Mr Stokoe.

After Sunderland his career took in a spell at Manchester City where he shared a flat with United legend George Best.

His playing days ended with a recurring tendon injury 20 years ago at Carlisle where he was reunited with Bob Stokoe.

Mr Horswill, who lives in Sedgefield, is now transport manager for Wilsonart, the Shildon-based company formerly owned by Darlington FC chairman George Reynolds and called Direct Worktops.