There has been no contact between Sunderland and Kevin Phillips over the managerial vacancy at the Stadium of Light.
It had been suggested earlier in the week that Sunderland had identified Phillips as a leading contender to replace Chris Coleman. However, the Sunderland Echo have claimed those reports as wide of the mark, confirming there has been no approach made towards the 44-year-old.
Phillips, who is currently part of Derby County’s coaching team, and Alex Rae were claimed to be on Sunderland’s radar, as the club looked to reunite two former players at the Stadium of Light.
Latest reports confirm that no contact has been made between Sunderland, Phillips and Rae, as focus at the Stadium of Light shifts towards Stewart Donald’s pending takeover.
Ellis Short agreed a deal to sell Sunderland on Sunday, which coincided with the announcement that Coleman would be departing the Stadium of Light following the club’s relegation to the third-tier of English football.
Defeats to Burton Albion and Fulham over the last two weeks have sealed Sunderland’s fate and cemented them to the bottom of the Sky Bet Championship table.
Sunderland welcome champions Wolves to the Stadium of Light on Sunday lunchtime for their final game in the second-tier.
The Verdict
Rightly, focus at Sunderland is on Donald’s takeover, which has to be a priority for the club this summer.
A decision on who should replace Coleman shouldn’t be rushed, as the appointment ahead of a campaign in League One is going to be huge for Sunderland.
Phillips could still be the right man, but Sunderland need to weigh up a number of candidates before a decision is made.
Sunderland fans… Let us know your thoughts!