Quinn has repeatedly voiced his disappointment at the number of supporters who head for local pubs rather than the Stadium of Light for home games, but launched his strongest attack yet last week. His comments have sparked a significant reaction, and he has welcomed the response, both favourable and otherwise. Writing in his programme notes ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Tottenham, Quinn insisted his concern was not for lost revenue, but the damage inflicted on the atmosphere at the stadium. He said: "As chairman of the club and as protector of the club, I have to consider what can I do to get us to our maximum capability? "We need to keep progressing and do all we can to become a powerhouse in British football. We can't let this progress slip. "If there are 10,000 people now watching our home games in pubs within easy travelling distance of the stadium, what will it be in three years' time if I don't tackle this situation? "Will that go to 20,000 and will our club disintegrate? These are the questions I ask myself...and I am delighted to have got this debate going. "Using the word 'despise' wasn't easy, but it seems to have worked and I am more than happy to speak to anyone who has a counter-argument - but can we all be reminded that right now, illegal broadcasting is what it is. "If things change and it becomes legal, I will have a look at the situation and see how people feel. "If a core number of people want to start doing it that way instead of coming to support the club, then maybe I will have to question my role here. "That's how seriously I take this and once again, I want to say I am delighted to have the debate. "I am happy now to state that I do not despise anybody, and especially not a doubting Sunderland fan, bit I am glad people are now talking about this."
