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:
29. Eric Roy
The former Sunderland player is the current manager of Ligue 1 side Brest and has been given a 12/1 chance by the bookies. Photo: KENZO TRIBOUILLARD
30. Lee Carsley
The current England under-20s coach has been given odds of 12/1 by the bookies to take the Sunderland job after Tony Mowbray's sacking. Photo: Naomi Baker
31. Garry Monk
The former Middlesbrough, Swansea City and Sheffield Wednesday manager has been given odds of 16/1 by the bookies to take the Sunderland job after Tony Mowbray's sacking. Photo: Alex Pantling
32. Kevin Phillips
The former South Shields manager has been given odds of 16/1 by the bookies to take the Sunderland job after Tony Mowbray's sacking. Photo: Nathan Stirk