Kevin Phillips has emerged as a contender for the managerial vacancy at Sunderland, with the club keen to bring the former striker back to the Stadium of Light.

Amid a busy weekend for Sunderland, Chris Coleman departed the Stadium of Light, as a takeover edged closer, with the sale of the League One-bound club agreed.

A report from The Sun has confirmed that Stewart Donald, who is set to takeover as owner, has identified Phillips as the man to replace Coleman in the Stadium of Light dugout.

The 44-year-old played for Sunderland between 1997 and 2003, enjoying a prolific spell in the Premier League.

The ex-striker bagged 134 goals in 239 appearances for the Black Cats, including 30 goals during the 1999/2000 season.

Phillips has previously been part of Leicester City’s coaching set-up, and is currently with Derby County, where he is part of Gary Rowett’s coaching team in the Sky Bet Championship.

If Sunderland’s interest in offering Phillips a role at the Stadium of Light becomes official, it is understood that Rowett will be willing to release the 44-year-old.

After 23 defeats in 45 fixtures, Sunderland are rooted to the foot of the Championship table and have suffered relegation to League One.

Sunderland complete the season on Sunday when Wolves visit the Stadium of Light.

The Verdict

Sunderland’s next managerial appointment is a big one for the club, as the new man in-charge is facing a huge summer and tricky first year in League One.

Phillips is inexperienced, but the likelihood is that he will be given time to adjust, given his status already at the Stadium of Light.

It has been such a disappointing couple of years for Sunderland, who need a positive appointment and fresh face to lift the club ahead of the summer.

Sunderland fans… Let us know your thoughts!