The Scot left the Stadium of Light a year ago today, following a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Lincoln City, just over a year after taking the reigns.
Here, we take a look back at the signings made under his watch and evaluate whether they were a success or not:
1. Tom Flanagan
A regular in the first-team squad since his arrival in the summer of 2018, Sunderland managed to tie Flanagan down to a new contract over the summer. VERDICT: HIT Photo: JPI Media
2. Chris Maguire
There can be absolutely no debate about this one, Maguire has been a rip-roaring success since his arrival on Wearside. VERDICT: HIT Photo: FRANK REID
3. Jon McLaughlin
The stopper has arguably been Sunderland's best player over the last 24 months, and his departure to Rangers was a major blow. VERDICT: HIT Photo: FRANK REID 2019
4. Alim Ozturk
While the Turkish defender split opinion among supporters, he was a regular in and around the first-team squad during his two years at the club and made an impact when needed. VERDICT: HIT Photo: FRANK REID 2020