It has been a turbulent weekend at the Stadium of Light, with Sunderland preparing themselves for a huge summer.
A takeover is edging closer after a sale was agreed, whilst there was a huge change in the dugout, with Chris Coleman departing.
Sunderland suffered a 2-1 defeat to Fulham on Friday evening, but despite a spirited effort, that result means that the Black Cats will be relegated as the Sky Bet Championship’s bottom side.
Coleman has now departed, with an announcement coming yesterday that the ex-Welsh boss was due to leave the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland will now be looking for a new manager to lead the club in League One next season.
It is not yet obvious who Sunderland will target to replace Coleman at the Stadium of Light, as their takeover takes centre stage in the coming weeks.
However, we take a look at FOUR potential replacements Sunderland could turn to…
McCarthy is available and knows Sunderland well, having previously managed at the Stadium of Light.
The 59-year-old would be a hugely popular appointment given his success at the club before.
The no nonsense style of McCarthy would help iron out a few major issues at Sunderland, whilst his experience with some of the club’s younger players could be invaluable.
Phillips is currently on Derby County’s coaching team, but could be a hugely popular appointment Sunderland.
The former striker was a prolific goalscorer during his time as a player at the Stadium of Light, but is yet to earn a first opportunity in management.
The 44-year-old would be given time to settle by Sunderland’s supporters and could be the man to spearhead a huge rebuild.
Wilder has done a terrific job with Sheffield United and has a proven record of delivering promotion.
If Wilder walks out at Bramall Lane he could be on Sunderland’s radar, although it might take some convincing for him to drop back down into League One, particularly with a club in Sunderland’s position.
Sheridan has done a terrific job since going to Fleetwood earlier this season, helping steer the club away from relegation trouble.
He isn’t staying on at the Highbury Stadium, but won’t be short of offers given his spell with Fleetwood.
Like McCarthy, Sheridan is no nonsense and could be a good appointment.