The executive director offered plenty of insight into the behind the scenes running of the Black Cats during his time at the club, and plenty of memorable quotes, too. Here, we take a look at the 11 quotes – brilliant and baffling – that helped to define Methven’s spell with the Black Cats:
9. These comments came after the play-off final defeat in May
"I thought the Charlton fans were very loud. I thought our fans were quiet. Ultimately Sunderland fans need to get realistic about that [staying in League One.]" Photo: Frank Reid
10. An ambitious target was immediately set
"As Stew says, you’ve got to think about it being a 100 point season next year. There’s no point trying to squeak 90 points again because you’re running a risk of a bounce of a ball or a couple of injured players derailing you."" Photo: FRANK REID 2019
11. Right to the end, Methven was backing the man in the dugout
"The remit has gone out to Phil Parkinson and the recruitment team – you tell us what you need. The manager was speaking at a talk-in last night and suggested five signings, and I think that’s around where we’ll be." Photo: FRANK REID