Sunderland have confirmed the appointment of Jack Ross as their new manager.

In a statement released on the Sunderland website, the Black Cats have announced that the former St Mirren boss has signed a two year contract at the Stadium of Light.

The 41-year-old manager has been at the height of speculation surrounding the vacant Sunderland managerial post since the departure of Chris Coleman in April.

Ross guided St Mirren to the Scottish Championship title this season, and is very much looking forward to his time at the Stadium of Light.

Ross stated: “This is a fantastic opportunity to take charge of an incredible football club. If you look the history, the facilities and most important of all, the fanbase, you can see what this club can be. To be part of the team to help realise that potential is something that fills me with excitement.

Jack Ross will be accompanied by assistant manager James Folwer at the Stadium of Light, and will have the full back of new owner Stewart Donald, who took over ownership of the Black Cats in a reported £40m deal.

Donald stated: “We are absolutely delighted to have secured Jack as our new manager. Jack is excited to be a part of the future we are building here, and the fact he turned down lucrative offers from elsewhere, including clubs currently in a higher division than ourselves, is testament to his commitment and desire to succeed at this club and his belief in our vision for the future.

“He joins us following an excellent start to his managerial career, including a memorable 2017-18 campaign with St Mirren, and was deeply impressive throughout the recruitment process. We have acted swiftly and the hard work now continues in earnest as we look towards the ultimate goal of getting Sunderland AFC back to where it should be.”

The Verdict

Jack Ross has finally been confirmed as the new manager of Sunderland, and it is about time.

With lots of talk about the 41-year-old around the Stadium of Light, new owner Stewart Donald has finally got the many he wanted in charge at the club.

Following back to back relegations, Ross will have a big task on his hands to try and bounce straight back to the Championship next season.