It’s rare that a week goes by a Sunderland without plenty to talk about. The past week has, once again, been no exception. This past seven days was a week which saw manager Jack Ross sacked by the Black Cats. The search for a new manager has once again begun.
This weeks edition also looks back at the latest takeover/investment news. Plus a look back at victory in the EFL Cup. There is also the latest from the Academy and Ladies teams.
Sunderland Weekly Roundup: New Manager Wanted For Black Cats
Jack Ross Sacked
On Tuesday we saw the end of Jack Ross’s time as manager. After another poor performance at Lincoln City, the Black Cats were defeated 2-0. After failing to secure promotion last season and no signs of improvement so far, current owner Stewart Donald wielded the axe.
Although Sunderland lay sixth in the table after their second league defeat of the season, too many draws and inconsistent performances led to Ross’s departure. Sunderland are desperate for promotion and under Ross, no signs of improvement from last season were being seen.
Black Cats New Manager Search Latest
Sunderland are back to where they have been many times over the past several years. Looking for a new manager.
On Wednesday Stewart Donald began his search. Many managers, in and out of work at present have been linked to the club. It was confirmed that several clubs had been approached by Stewart Donald to speak to their manager.
Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips announced his desire to be the manager. As did several others, including ex Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson. Pearson has suggested if he were to be given the job, he would bring Kevin Phillips as his assistant. At present, the favourite to become the new manager at the Stadium of Light changes on a daily basis. However, it is believed that Stewart Donald has spoken to former Bolton Wanderers manager Phil Parkinson.
EFL Cup Victory
Soon after Jack Ross was sacked, the team were back in action. This time in the EFL Cup. The Black Cats faced Grimsby Town at the Stadium of Light. The post Jack Ross era got off to a winning start as the beat their opponents 3-2. Nine changes were made by Sunderland’s boss for the night James Fowler.
The returning Duncan Watmore equalised in the second half. Marc McNulty put the hosts in front only for Grimsby to equalise almost immediately. However, Will Grigg headed in the winner four minutes from time.
Takeover/Investment News
On the same day that Ross was sacked, rumours began to circulate that the proposed takeover of the club had fallen through. A report in the Northern Echo suggested that claims had circulated of the deal collapsing. However, executive director Charlie Methvan insists talks are still on going:
“There have been a lot of rumours and things said that are simply not true” said Methven. The talks to attract investor – we have never said it is a takeover – remains ongoing. Those discussions have been going on for some time.”
Academy and Ladies News
Sunderland Ladies have progressed to the second round of the FA Women’s National League Cup. They travelled to Barnsley, coming away with a hard-fought win. Sunderland Under-23’s travelled to Huddersfield Town for their first game in this seasons Premier League Cup. They returned home with a point after a goalless draw. They will face Liverpool in their next cup game at home.
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