Sunderland’s search for a head coach is continuing, with no resolution found two weeks to the day since Kyril Louis-Dreyfus said he hoped a decision was ‘imminent’.
It has been a testing time for supporters as a number of contenders have come into and then dropped out of the race. Here’s the latest runners and riders and how they’re being judged by the bookies, as well as our own input on how things are playing out and what might happen next...
5. Paul Heckingbottom - 14/1
Stays in the list as is known to have been some level of interest in the past. Seems highly unlikely, given that he has now been a free agent when the last two vacancies have come up and yet talks haven't progressed. Still, credentials are good and Sunderland's list is currently only getting shorter. Would take a major turn of events, though. Photo: Matt McNulty
6. Dave Challinor - 14/1
Similar to Robinson, linked with the role after a hugely successful few years with Hartlepool and Stockport, but his candidacy has been quashed by senior club sources. Not in contention. | Getty Images Photo: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images
7. Liam Rosenior - 10/1
Was odds-on favourite for a period of time but now seen as unlikely to be the next head coach. Wants to bide his time and has been in Burnley's thoughts, and Sunderland can't really afford to wait. A u-turn isn't totally out of the question but it would now be a major surprise if he was unveiled even amid reports he's longer in the race for the Burnley job. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
8. Rene Maric - 8/1
Hugely admired by Sunderland's hierarchy and came close to the role last December, but opted to stay at Bayern Munich. His future there still remains up in the air to a degree but he is firmly expected to be promoted to Vincent Kompany's senior staff. Club sources have been clear for a while that they don't see it happening this time around - even if they obviously rate him highly. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images