Sunderland could learn Sam Allardyce England decision this week

The Black Cats have grown increasingly angered by the FA's dawdling over appointing a new England manager, a week after they interviewed Allardyce for the role.

Reports today have suggested that Hull boss and ex-Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has also now held talks with the FA over the role, although Allardyce remains the firm favourite.

But with the FA's executive board due to meet at the end of this week, the three-man panel charged with finding Roy Hodgson's successor, could recommend a preferred candidate.

That is likely to be Allardyce after the Sunderland manager has garnered a host of support both from the media and the football fraternity over the last fortnight.

But if Allardyce is appointed, Sunderland would have just three weeks before the start of the season to appoint a successor and enter the transfer market.