Club bosses have thanked Mowbray and said it was a 'difficult decision' to take. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: “We are now focused on identifying the right candidate and we will continue to support our coaching team and players throughout the interim period.”
The club has confirmed Mike Dodds will 'lead the first team’s training and match preparations until the process to appoint a new Head Coach has concluded.'
A club statement read: "Sunderland AFC has this evening parted company with Head Coach Tony Mowbray. The Club would like thank Tony for the positive contribution he has made throughout the past two seasons alongside his assistant Mark Venus, who also departs.
"Both will always be welcome back at the Stadium of Light and we wish them well for the future."
The Black Cats are next in Championship action against West Brom at the Stadium of Light on Saturday after their recent 1-1 draw with Millwall at The Den.
Here, though, we take a look at the early runners and riders to replace Tony Mowbray at the Stadium of Light:
21. Gus Poyet
The former Sunderland manager was heavily linked with a return to the club before Lee Johnson was appointed but is now managing the Greece national team which probably makes his return to Wearside unlikely as things stand. Photo: Charles McQuillan
22. Frank Lampard
The former Derby County, Everton and Chelsea manager has been given odds of 14/1 by the bookies to take the Sunderland job after Tony Mowbray's sacking. Photo: Warren Little
23. Gary Rowett
As a player, Gary Rowett played in the Premier League for Everton, Derby County, Leicester City and Charlton Athletic and has since managed Burton Albion, Birmingham City, Stoke City and Millwall. The bookies have him at 16/1. Photo: Steve Bardens
24. Kevin Muscat
The former Millwall player is currently the manager of Yokohama F. Marinos but has been given surprise odds of 8/1 to take the job. Photo: Fred Lee