Since Roy Keane left the Stadium of Light last week, several names have been thrown into the ring to replace him.
Several names, who are normally connected with most jobs, have been bounded about; Peter Ried, Alan Curbishley and Davod O’Leary have been mentioned. But one person has put themselves forward for the job. An ex-Magpie.
Sam Allardyce, who was at the helm of rivals Newcastle United for 8 months, has put his name forward to be the fiery Irishman’s replacement:
I’ve said over the last few days that I would like to get back into managing a football club and I’m bound to be linked with Sunderland at the moment. There’s been no official contact but I know what a great club it is. I’ve worked there twice before, so I know what it needs.
But we’ll just have to wait and see. I really feel I’m ready now.
There are two obstacles to overcome with the possiblity of ‘Big Sam’ being in charge of the Black Cats. First and foremost, would he take Sunderland forward? His Bolton side were known for succeeding, but playing a brand of anti-football, whereas Sunderland under Keane played attractive football. If he is chosen, the second factor comes in, how would ther Sunderland fans react to him? Has his association with Newcastle tainted him forever, or will his lack of success at St James Park, like Michael Chopra, ease him into the Stadium of Light hotseat?