Paul Reid leaves role as Sunderland's academy manager after two year-spell

Reid held the post for two years after landing the role in the aftermath of Stewart Donald’s takeover of the club.

He had previously worked as Head of Recruitment for Eastleigh FC, which Donald owned.

A statement from Sunderland said: “Sunderland AFC can today confirm that Paul Reid has left his position as academy manager with immediate effect.

“The club would like to place on record it’s thanks to Paul for his service throughout what has been a challenging two years for the club’s academy, including helping to ensure its category one status was retained.

“All at SAFC would like to wish Paul the very best for the future.”

Reid leaves after a difficult campaign for the club’s U18 and U23 sides, who were unable to win a league fixture in either of their divisions.

That has led to the release of a large number of players, while a host of talented graduates have also left the club.

Bali Mumba is set to be the next to depart, with a deal to join Norwich City all but completed.

It has left fans worried about the future of the club’s prestigious academy, which retained it’s category one status earlier this year but continus to face difficult challenges as the club languishes in League One.