Here, we take a look at the names linked with the Stadium of Light hot seat at the time and how they’ve fared since.
Simply scroll down and click through the pages to take a look at how the candidates who snubbed or missed out on the big job at Sunderland have fared this season...
1. Gareth Ainsworth
Gareth Ainsworth was favourite with the bookmakers to replace Jack Ross at the Stadium of Light at one point, with Sunderland given permission to speak to him. The move didn't materialise and Ainsworth guided Wycombe to the Championship via a play-off victory against Oxford United at Wembley. Photo: Catherine Ivill
2. Daniel Stendel
Another name who the Black Cats reportedly made contact with, ex-Barnsley manager Daniel Stendel opted to move to Hearts in the Scottish Premiership, where he was relegated under the points-per-game system. Stendel had a clause in his contract which meant that it was no longer in effect if Hearts were relegated from the first tier, and the club appointed Robbie Neilson to replace him last month. Photo: Lewis Storey
3. Mark Robins
The Coventry City manager was approached by Sunderland - but has decided to snub their interest and sign a new deal with the Sky Blues, guiding his team to the League One title under PPG. Photo: Lewis Storey
4. Paul Cook
Another manager that Sunderland are said to have approached. Cook was reported to be interested in speaking to the Black Cats but is still at Championship side Wigan Atheltic. The Latics are performing admirably in the second tier and look set to survive relegation despite being placed into relegation. Photo: George Wood