Sunderland AFC news: Ex-Cats boss backs Sam Allardyce for England, Liam Bridcutt latest

The waiting game over Allardyce's future continues, with the FA yet to make a decision over appointing the 61-year-old as England manager - almost a week after he held talks.

Allardyce remains the firm favourite with the bookmakers to succeed Roy Hodgson, while David Moyes is equally short odds to take charge at the Stadium of Light.

And Ipswich manager McCarthy believes Allardyce does have the right credentials to end England's pattern of under-achievement.

“Sam’s just been excellent, I think. I don’t know how many things he’s won. Promotions, stays in the league. He gets the best out of people,” McCarthy said.

Sunderland's business in the transfer market is on ice until the managerial situation is resolved.

As the Echo reported over the weekend, Sunderland have held talks over a loan move for PSG right-back Youssouf Sabaly, but the switch has been on hold while the uncertainty continues over Allardyce's future.

However, Sunderland are still able to push ahead with offloading the club's dead-wood, with Aston Villa today linked with out-of-favour midfielder Liam Bridcutt.

Leeds have been in talks over re-signing Bridcutt after last season's loan spell at Elland Road, but reports have credited relegated Villa with an interest too.