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:
21. George Dobson
A regular for large parts of last season, Dobson certainly has age on his side and you would back him to grow. VERDICT: HIT Photo: Frank Reid
22. Joel Lynch
Didn't have the impact on the Sunderland defence that many had hoped when he arrived, particularly given his pedigree. VERDICT: MISS Photo: COPYRIGHT (C) FRANK REID 20187
23. Marc McNulty
Scored some crucial goals during his half-season on Wearside, but fell out of favour under Phil Parkinson. VERDICT: MISS Photo: FRANK REID
24. Laurens De Bock
Made little to no impact during his time on Wearside. VERDICT: MISS Photo: FRANK REID