'A coup' 'Massive step up': Sunderland fans react to big managerial development as club begin major rebuild

The Black Cats have announced that Kristjaan Speakman will take up a new role as sporting director after a 14-year spell at Birmingham City where he worked as the Blues’ academy director.

Many supporters seemed optimistic about the prospect of Johnson becoming the Black Cats’ next manager, following his time at Bristol City which saw him win promotion from League One with the Robins.

Here’s how some supporters reacted to the news:

@JamesBovill1: On the face of things, this is promising. Two people that want players to develop from the academy in the first team. Johnson supposedly also prefers more attacking football which I think everyone will enjoy more

@ian_brown_jnr: No matter which way you look at this, it’s a massive step up from Parkinson!

@clockstand78: Sounds like an exciting partnership who will hopefully be backed and allowed to bring in a full team that benefits all areas of the club

@lewy_g01: I'd take him! Done a canny job at Bristol City!

@S1mpson: He plays 4-4-2 and likes to attack so that would be a major change

@PabloTheMackem: Lee Johnson... very happy if this appointment happens. Did well at Bristol City, plays and develops young kids which is brilliant and he plays attacking football.

@ichemeler: It’s a coup to get Johnson like

@LauraJ8338: Announce Lee Johnson. Happy with that.

@shortsbarron: Class choice for us at where we are now, and has the abilities and personality to get us going again, better than some of the options mentioned

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