Sunderland confirmed that Mike Dodds has been appointed interim head coach until the end of the season after Michael Beale left his post after just 63 days and 12 games at the helm. Back-to-back defeats have seen the club drop off the play-off pace and Beale has struggled to win over sceptical supporters.
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said he was 'disappointed' that Beale was leaving but that it was in the best interests of the club. He added that the club took 'full accountability' for what had happened.
Former Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce was given odds of 10/1 by Instant Casino to become Sunderland's head coach in the summer. However, the former England boss has now dropped out of the betting. Photo: Julian Finney
Former Aston Villa and Rangers boss Steven Gerrard was given odds of 10/1 by Instant Casino to become Sunderland's head coach in the summer. Now, Gerrard is priced at 8/1 with the same outlet. Photo: Yasser Bakhsh
Former Barnsley and Swansea manager Michael Duff was given odds of 7/1 by Instant Casino to become Sunderland's head coach in the summer. However, Duff has now fallen out of the betting with no odds available. Photo: Ryan Hiscott
Former Sunderland player Paul Heckingbottom was given odds of 7/2 by Instant Casino to become Sunderland's head coach in the summer. Fast forward to today and the ex-Sheffield United boss is still priced at 8/1 with the same outlet. Photo: Matt McNulty