Sunderland are believed to be on the verge of appointing former Bristol City boss Lee Johnson as their new head coach. The Sunderland Echo and Keith Downie, of Sky Sports, report that the appointment is imminent and could be confirmed within 24 hours.
The Black Cats have been searching for a new boss since dismissing Phil Parkinson last Sunday. First-team coach Andrew Taylor took charge of the 1-1 draw at home to Burton Albion on Tuesday, however, it appears that he may not take charge of many more games as Sunderland look to make an appointment sooner rather than later.
Sunderland Close to Appointing Lee Johnson as Head Coach
Major Rebuild on Wearside
Sunderland are set to restructure their football operations, starting with the appointment of Kristjaan Speakman as the club’s new Sporting Director. Speakman, who was formerly employed by Birmingham City for 14 years is set to be handed a major role at the Stadium of Light and the club’s academy. Speakman is likely to work closely with the new head coach when appointed. At present, it appears that will be Lee Johnson.
Lee Johnson Has Impressed During Talks
It is believed that Lee Johnson has been on Wearside and held talks with Sunderland. It is thought that he has impressed the club’s hierarchy with his ability and passion to work within a structure, the development of younger players and his modern approach to the game.
Johnson has seen his name jump from an outside bet for the job to one of the favourites. Gus Poyet was originally believed to the favourite, however, when it was expected that he was on his way, it was announced that the Uruguayan coach would not be returning to the club.
Lee Johnson History
Johnson began his managerial career at Oldham Athletic. He was appointed their manager in March 2013 at just 31-years-old. He steered the Latics to safety in his first few months in charge. The following season Johnson and Oldham impressed with many excellent performances which included a ten-game unbeaten run at the end of the season. This resulted in Oldham’s highest league finish for several years.
Saving Barnsley
In February 2015, Johnson was appointed the new Barnsley head coach. The Tykes were possible relegation candidates when he arrived; however, Johnson steered them to a respectable mid-table finish. The following campaign returned mixed results but a seven-game winning streak saw the club rise up the table. Johnson also led the team to the EFL Trophy final.
Bristol City
One year after joining Barnsley, Johnson was appointed the new head coach of Championship side Bristol City. At the time of his appointment, the Robins were in 22nd place. City eventually survived. The following season saw City at one point look like potential promotion contenders but eventually finished closer to the bottom of the table than the top.
Johnsons’s next season proved to be the highlight of his tenure. City after 24 games sat 2nd in the table and had promotion in their sights. They also enjoyed a run to the League Cup semi-final. Unfortunately for Johnson and City, promotion and a cup final were out of reach.
The following two seasons saw City challenge for a place in the play-offs. However, in July of this year, Johnson was sacked as Bristol City’s head coach.
His next stop could be the Stadium of Light with the task of getting the Black Cats promoted after three successive seasons in League One.
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