Lee Johnson reportedly spoke to multiple senior Sunderland players last night ahead of his appointment as the North East club's new manager, which is expected in the next 24 hours. 

The Black Cats sacked Phil Parkinson last weekend, with the senior side led by first-team coach Andrew Taylor since.

Reports have indicated that Johnson is set to be appointed as Parkinson's permanent replacement in the next 24 hours.

According to JPI Media's head of football Ross Gregory, the former Bristol City manager met with a number of senior Sunderland players last night ahead of his impending appointment.

The 39-year-old is far from the only notable name to be linked with the job and it is understood that Sol Campbell, Paul Cook, Danny Cowley, and Gus Poyet have also spoken to the club about the role.

Johnson has been out of a job since leaving City earlier this year, having been sacked after four years in charge of the South West club.

The former Robins player helped the Bs3 outfit establish themselves as a Championship club and push for the play-offs in that time, something the Black Cats will no doubt be hoping to do over the next few years.

It seems to be a time of change at the Stadium of Light, with new technical director Kristjaan Speakman appointed yesterday, while Juan Sartori and Kyril Louis-Dreyfus' takeover appears to be close.

Which club did Sunderland sign each of these 25 players from?

The Verdict

It appears everything has fallen into place for Johnson to take charge at Sunderland and we are now just awaiting the announcement.

This is a major update in the manager hunt, as meeting senior players surely confirms that the 39-year-old will be Parkinson's long-term replacement.

Johnson did amazing things for the Robins and helped bring the club forward in his four years at Ashton Gate, if he's given the same sort of backing at Sunderland he could be the man to help them get back on their feet.