Championship news: Middlesbrough's new appointment and Sunderland transfer latest

Sunderland return to action in the Championship against league leaders Leicester City on Tuesday night with Tony Mowbray's men looking to avoid three losses on the spin.

Ahead of the game, though, we take a look at the main Sunderland and Championship headlines from around the web as the Black Cats prepare to take on the Foxes.

Middlesbrough conclude off-field appointment

Sunderland's North East rivals, Middlesbrough, have poached Stockport City's Head of Performance Analysis, Joppe Meulensteen.

Simon Wilson, Stockport's Director of Football, said: “We are all sad to see Joppe go – he’s been brilliant. But we wish him the best in his next chapter with Middlesbrough.”

Jobe Bellingham latest amid scouting reports

Borussia Dortmund have reportedly joined Real Madrid in watching Sunderland's teenage sensation Jobe Bellingham's progress at the Stadium of Light.

Earlier this month, Spanish publication El National stated that Real Madrid were scouting the player.

Fast forward to this week and German website Corriere dello Sport has claimed that the youngster is also being followed by Borussia Dortmund.

Jack Clarke eyeing Sunderland promotion push

Jack Clarke is eyeing promotion from the Championship with Sunderland.

"I've lost twice now in the play-off semi-finals, and you can only try and use that experience to your advantage, or it will eat away at you," Clarke told Sky Sports. "It can be our stepping stone to be an even better team in this league this season.

"Hopefully we can get into the play-offs or higher and go one better this year, and finish on a real high."