Sunderland CEO Jim Rodwell is reportedly a fan of Danny Cowley with the North East club currently searching for a replacement for Phil Parkinson. 

Parkinson was sacked by the Black Cats on Sunday after an underwhelming start to the season had left Sunderland 8th and without a win in five.

Yesterday, Cowley confirmed his interest in taking charge at the Stadium of Light and it appears he is a popular man among some at the North East club.

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Rodwell – who was appointed as the Black Cats CEO earlier this year – is a fan of the former Huddersfield Town and Lincoln City boss.

Chronicle Live reported earlier this week that Rodwell was set to spearhead the search for the new manager, which would seem to favour Cowley.

The 42-year-old coach as been out of a job since he left Huddersfield Town late last season but has experience in League One, having led Lincoln from non-league to the third tier.

The potential arrival of new owners looks likely to have an impact on the decision, however, as it is understood that Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Juan Sartori's takeover of the club is close and it has been suggested previously that the provisional new owners had an impact on the decision to sack Parkinson.

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The Verdict

In my eyes, Cowley would be the most sensible appointment for Sunderland – particularly if they're willing to give him a chance of long-term success.

A change of attitude is needed at the club and that is something that he and his brother can instill.

The issue is that the new owners may be looking for a more high-profile appointment and someone to have near-instant success.

Unfortunately, Cowley may not tick those boxes.