Ex-Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy set for return to management - in shock European role

McCarthy, who managed the Black Cats between 2003 and 2006 and led the club to the Championship title in 2005, has been out of work since leaving his post as Republic of Ireland manager earlier this year.

But he now looks set to step into the dugout once more, albeit in a surprising role.

APOEL – who finished third in Cyprus’ top flight last season and were knocked-out in Europa League qualifiers - have confirmed that McCarthy is expected in the country on Saturday, October 31 to seal a deal to become their new manager.

In a brief statement, the club said: “APOEL FOOTBALL informs that it expects the Irish coach Michael McCarthy tomorrow in Cyprus, so that the discussions regarding the possibility of cooperation can be completed.

"Mr. McCarthy will be at the GSP stage to watch the APOEL-Apollon match”

McCarthy has not previously managed a club side overseas, with his last managerial stint away from the international stage coming at Ipswich Town, whom he left in April 2018 having previously announced his desire to leave the role at the end of the 2017/18 season.

And he will face a tough task at APOEL, who currently sit seventh in the Cypriot First Division after an underwhelming start to the campaign.

But the side do have some recognisable names in their ranks – including former Sheffield Wednesday striker Atdhe Nuhiu and full-back Emilio Nsue, formerly of Middlesbrough.