This is why Stewart Donald is right to stick with Phil Parkinson at Sunderland AFC

The first 11 games of Parkinson’s tenure have yielded just two triumphs, with the Black Cats having exited all three domestic cup competitions during a dismal start to his reign.

But while some supporters have been calling for the 51-year-old’s head in recent weeks, his track record in management suggests that Parkinson can turn the tide at the Stadium of Light.

For while he has enjoyed a strong career in management - particularly in the third tier - Parkinson has notoriously been a slow-burner with his reigns at clubs typically beginning in an underwhelming fashion.

Here, we take a look at how Parkinson’s time at each of his former clubs has begun - and why that offers optimism for Sunderland.

COLCHESTER UNITED

First 11 games:

Won 6

Drew 4

Lost 1

There’s always an exception to the rule, and Parkinson’s start at Colchester was a fairly blistering one.

That was perhaps to be expected, given the strength of the squad he inherited, but it was a remarkable beginning to his managerial career nonetheless.

Parkinson ultimately led Colchester to the Championship after achieving an unlikely promotion - but his time in the South East wasn’t without its difficulties.

However, he managed to steer the side out of a number of tricky runs of form - which should hand Sunderland hope that he can do similar.

HULL CITY

First 11 games:

Won 2

Drew 3

Lost 6

Parkinson swapped Colchester for Hull after guiding his former side to the second tier - but endured a torrid start to his time on Humberside.

His first game in charge ended in a 5-1 defeat to Colchester, and he won just two of his opening 11 games.

Ultimately, Parkinson lasted just 24 games with the Tigers, of which he won just five.

Performances, however, were showing some signs of improvement towards the end of his reign.

CHARLTON ATHLETIC

First 11 games:

Won 1

Drew 4

Lost 6

After serving as Alan Pardew’s assistant, Parkinson stepped into the hot seat at the Valley following his departure.

His tenure began poorly, with just one win from his opening 11 games and six defeats.

But things would improve. Parkinson ultimately oversaw 114 games in charge of the Addicks and picked up two League One manager of the month awards for his work - further proof that given time, Parkinson can steady the ship and deliver some improved performances.

BRADFORD CITY

First 11 games:

Won 2

Drew 5

Lost 4

Parkinson is perhaps best known for the sterling work he did at Bradford City - guiding the Bantams to the League Cup final in 2013 and embarking on a stunning run in the 2015 FA Cup.

But it’s often forgotten that his time at Valley Parade started poorly.

Parkinson could only muster two wins from his first 11 games in charge, in a record which is almost parallel with his start at the Stadium of Light.

Given time, and the chance to bring in squad members to suit his style of play, Parkinson managed to build with the Bantams and established the side as a strong force in League One.

BOLTON WANDERERS

First 11 games:

Won 4

Drew 5

Lost 2

Taking charge of Wanderers in League One, Parkinson’s reign began solidly - if rather unspectacular.

He won four of his opening 11 games in charge, but regular draws were a source of frustration among the fanbase.

But again, as is the common denominator when he achieves success, Parkinson was given time to build.

He cultivated a squad and style of play which saw Bolton romp to promotion from League One and then compete in the Championship - and that’s the blueprint Sunderland are looking to emulate.

That thought is no doubt clear in Stewart Donald’s mind, and from his track record it seems clear that Parkinson will require time - and if given it, he usually delivers.