Sunderland are yet to make an official approach for either Paul Heckingbottom or Michael O’Neill, according to reports in The Newcastle Chronicle.

The Black Cats are without a manager following the sacking of Simon Grayson last month, with well-publicised pursuits of both Heckingbottom and O’Neill both failing to result in firm offers thus far.

The Chronicle suggests that Sunderland have been cautious in their approach for a new manager having been embarrassed in the summer, when Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes turned the club down at the final hour after club officials were confident of securing a deal for the Scot.

The Chronicle even go as far to suggest that O’Neill is the primary candidate for the role, due to the Wearsiders delaying their new managerial appointment for over two-and-a-half-weeks, coincidentally when O’Neill’s short-term Northern Ireland commitments came to a close.

Who takes up the role remains to be seen, but a new man will not be in the dugout for Saturday’s tie with Millwall, with Robbie Stockdale set to take temporary charge of the early season six-pointer.

The Verdict

What a mess this whole situation is.

Reports are emerging left right and centre making all kind of suggestions about the vacant role, with almost three weeks passing since the sacking of Grayson.

The Chronicle’s suggestion of O’Neill being the primary candidate does make sense based upon the timings, but this is Sunderland Football Club, and I would take anything with a pinch of salt.

Things are obviously going on behind the scenes, and unfortunately for beleaguered Black Cats fans, they are going to have to wait a little longer for any positive news.

Sunderland fans, who do you want to be your next boss? Have your say below...