Sunderland have begun their search to find Jack Ross' replacement, after the former St Mirren boss was dismissed earlier this week. 

The Black Cats had got off to an inconsistent start to the season, with Ross leaving them sixth in the League One table ahead of the international break.

A recent report from TEAMtalk had revealed that Sunderland were targeting Coventry City boss Mark Robins, whilst also considering the likes of Daniel Stendel and Paul Cook for the vacancy.

But the Northern Echo have reported that former England manager Steve McClaren has made contact with the League One club, and has expressed his interest in taking charge at the Stadium of Light in the near future.

McClaren has been out of work since April, when he was sacked as QPR's manager last season, and is seemingly keen to get back into work at the earliest of opportunities.

His rumoured interest had plenty of Sunderland fans talking on social media.

See the best of the reaction from Twitter below....