Phil Parkinson was not expecting to be sacked as Sunderland boss and trained with the squad today, according to journalist Alan Nixon. 

It was announced this afternoon that Parkinson had been relieved of his duties by the Black Cats, less than 14 months after he was appointed.

Nixon has revealed that the 52-year-old coach was not expecting to be sacked by the North East club and held training with his players today before being informed of the club's decision.

With Steve Parkin also departing the club, first-team coach Andrew Taylor will take charge of Tuesday's game against Burton Albion.

Sunderland have made an underwhelming start to the season and are eighth in League One as they look to bounce back from the disappointment of missing the play-offs last term.

Their recent form has been particularly poor and the draw with Fleetwood Town on Friday evening made it five games without a win.

It is understood that Nigel Pearson and Gus Poyet have emerged as potential replacements for Parkinson.

20 quiz questions about Sunderland’s current squad that Black Cats fans should be getting correct

The Verdict

A drop in form cost Sunderland their chance of making the play-offs last term and it appears that with Parkinson's men on a similar run recently, the club have pulled the trigger.

Clearly, they feel that he is not the right person to help them get back to the Championship this season but it seems that the 52-year-old thought he still had the backing of the club.

You feel that the decision is likely linked to the suggestion that new owners are close to buying the club from Stewart Donald.