Sunderland have today parted company with manager Phil Parkinson. The former Bolton Wanderers boss had been under increasing pressure of late following a five game winless run. The team have recently slipped down the League One table, been knocked out of the FA Cup by League Two side Mansfield Town and suffered defeat in the EFL Trophy.
Manager Phil Parkinson Sacked
Club Statement
A recently released statement from the club said: “Sunderland AFC has today parted company with manager Phil Parkinson.
“The 52-year-old was appointed in October 2019, overseeing a total of 47 matches during his 13 months at the Stadium of Light.
“Assistant manager Steve Parkin also departs, and the club would like to place on record its thanks to both Phil and Steve for their efforts during their time at SAFC.
“Preparations for Tuesday’s Sky Bet League One fixture against Burton Albion will resume on Monday, with first-team coach Andrew Taylor taking charge of the squad.
“The board will now begin the search for a new manager and will make no further comment until this process is completed.”
Poor Run of Results and Form led to Departure
Following a good start to the season, where the Black Cats looked unbeatable in defence, form has slumped. From being serious contenders for promotion, Parkinson’s men have looked anything but. No wins in five games, and looking limited in attack has seen Sunderland drop down the table, knocked out of the FA Cup at the first round stage to Mansfield and being beaten in the EFL Trophy at Fleetwood Town.
Fans were obviously worried and many were calling for yet another change in management. Phil Parkinson is experienced at League One Level; however, with Sunderland and everyone connected to the club desperate to escape England’s third tier, the feeling was that the job was just too big for the former Bolton manager.
Parkinson leaves the club in eighth in League One. The 1-1 draw with Fleetwood Town on Friday night was his final game in charge.
New Owners Incoming
Sunderland could have new owners in place next month. Current owner Stewart Donald is in discussions with a consortium led by Juan Sartori and Kyril Louis-Dreyfus. At present it is unclear whether Stewart Donald or the potential new owners will head the search for a new manager.
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