Sunderland remain deeply embroiled in the battle for automatic promotion from League One along with Barnsley and Portsmouth.

Jack Ross' side were held to a 1-1 draw with Peterborough on Easter Monday when Max Power's late opener was cancelled out by Matt Godden's injury-time strike.

But the Black Cats' fate is now out of their hands with three games remaining, as their promotion rivals made no such mistake to seal crucial victories on a busy day of League One action.

Ross has turned around the fortunes of Sunderland since taking over as manager in the summer, when the club was still reeling after back-to-back relegations.

The former St Mirren boss also guided his side to the Football League Trophy final last month, but they lost on penalties against Portsmouth.

His success on Wearside has attracted the interest of numerous potential suitors and the Scotland national team now keen on his services, according to the Daily Record.

The 42-year-old is thought to be on the Scottish FA's shortlist alongside the likes of Derek McInnes, Steve Clarke, David Moyes and Scott Gemmill.

Ross still has one year to run on the contract he signed at the Stadium of Light last summer.

The Verdict

This would be a huge blow for Sunderland.

The club is in desperate need of a period of sustained stability after a troubled few years and Ross seemed like the man to provide that.

As a proud Scotsman, he would find the national team manager role hard to turn down. Sunderland must do all they can to keep hold of him, as he has overseen a commendable rebuild this season.