Nigel Pearson and Gus Poyet have reportedly emerged as potential replacements for Phil Parkinson, who was sacked by Sunderland this afternoon.

The Black Cats are eighth in League One and extended their winless run to five games with a 1-1 draw against Fleetwood Town on Friday.

It appears that has forced the North East club's hand as it was announced today that Parkinson has been sacked.

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Pearson and Poyet are both candidates to take charge at the Stadium of Light.

The former has been jobless since he was sacked by Watford last season and has experience helping clubs rise up from League One, having taken Leicester City from the third tier to the top flight.

Should Poyet get the job it would be his second spell in charge of Sunderland, having managed the club while they were a Premier League outfit between 2013 and 2015.

Reports have suggested that a takeover of Sunderland is imminent, so the new manager is likely to be selected by the incoming owners.

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

 

The Verdict

Both are good options for the Black Cats and would be solid appointments.

Poyet had success at Sunderland previously, taking them to the League Cup final, while Pearson has experience leading teams back up the EFL.

Securing promotion back to the Championship will undoubtedly be the target for Parkinson's replacement with Sunderland currently playing a third consecutive season in League One.

It's going to be very interesting to see whether the appointment comes before any confirmation of the takeover which is expected soon.