Mick McCarthy has been spotted in the North East today as speculation intensifies in the wake of Chris Coleman's departure.

McCarthy left Ipswich earlier this month after six years in charge and is on the look-out for a new job. He's now been spotted out and about in the North East as per the Sunderland Echo, fuelling rumours he's set to return to the club he managed for three years.

McCarthy took Sunderland to the Championship play-offs in 2004, then back to the Premier League in 2005 before leaving for Wolves the following season. He's always confessed he feels he has unfinished business.

Speaking last year he said: "Maybe if I was out of contract... Oh yeah, if I was out of contract, and I was free and available, then yes I’d go back in a heartbeat because I loved my time there. But I’m not out of contract, I’m not free and available, so no I wouldn’t be going back."

Much at Sunderland rests on the new owners being passed by the EFL. A consortium, led by Eastleigh chairman Stewart Donald, are currently looking to take control.

The deal is however subject to EFL approval and Donald will have to sell National League side Eastleigh to comply with ownership rules.

The Verdict

On Wearside he already has one promotion to his name and would be a popular choice. They surely can't fail to get out of League One at the first time of asking but even so, any manager who is in charge will receive plaudits. If Donald's take over is successful, Mick will be on to a winner up north.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know below!