Next Sunderland manager: Ex-Leeds United and Newcastle United men among early runners and riders to replace Tony Mowbray

Sunderland have parted company with head coach Tony Mowbray – but who could be in line to replace him in the dugout?

Thanking Mowbray, club executives acknowledged that it was a “difficult decision.” “We are now focused on identifying the right candidate and we will continue to support our coaching team and players throughout the interim period,” stated Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman.

According to the club, Mike Dodds will take charge of the first team’s practise and game planning until the hiring of a new head coach is complete.

“Sunderland AFC has this evening parted company with Head Coach Tony Mowbray,” the club said in a statement. Together with his departing assistant Mark Venus, the Club would like to thank Tony for the positive contribution he has made over the past two seasons.

“Both will always be welcome back at the Stadium of Light and we wish them well for the future.”

After their most recent 1-1 draw at The Den with Millwall, the Black Cats will play West Brom at the Stadium of Light on Saturday in their next Championship match.

Here, though, we take a look at the early runners and riders to replace Tony Mowbray at the Stadium of Light:

First, Graham Potter
The highly regarded former head coach of Chelsea and Brighton is probably waiting for a good Premier League position to open up. Still, there’s a chance that Sunderland’s project will tempt him. Bookmakers rate him at 16/1. Marc Atkins in picture

2. Solskjaer, Ole Gunnar
After experiencing success in Norway, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer managed Manchester United and Cardiff City before being fired from both positions. This one seems implausible, and the chances of him signing with Sunderland are zero. Pictured by Matt McNulty

3. Keane Roy
The former Sunderland manager has declared he would return to management given the correct opportunity. Before Alex Neil was appointed manager in League One, Keane and the Black Cats made flirtatious moves with one another. Now that Sunderland is a more alluring option, his comeback may be possible. Pictured by Naomi Baker

4. The late Neil Warnock
Neil Warnock’s appointment as Sunderland manager would come as a surprise given that it would only be a temporary position, but don’t worry—the former manager of Cardiff and Leeds will be applying for one last position. Pictured by Matt McNulty