Sunderland Under-8s trained alongside some of the first team squad at the Academy of Light recently, but it was the youngsters who looked like the professionals.

Currently struggling in the Premier League, manager Gus Poyet has penned an open letter to the fans asking for their support.

Whether this meeting was meant as a punishment for the under-performing stars or a treat for the kids is unclear.

In the clip below, enthused children can be seen dribbling around the bigger lads and keeping the ball away from them in passing game.

A reckless Steven Fletcher slide tackle gets nowhere near its intended target, while Adam Johnson resorts to diving in an effort to gain a foothold in an impromptu match.

Watch highlights of the session as Sunderland Under-8s train with the first team squad:

PLUS! A compilation of photos from the day: