Sunderland confirm beginning of major footballing rebuild as Kristjaan Speakman's brief is revealed

Speakman, formerly of Birmingham City, will be handed a wide brief at the club.

The 41-year-old will lead Sunderland’s overall football programme, and will be handed a major role in club recruitment from the academy to first-team level.

He has been tasked with ‘reviewing and implementing new strategies’ in areas such as data analytics and innovation. A vital part of his remit will also be in establishing a ‘clear pathway’ to the first team for academy players.

He was also play a leading role in the appointment of a new Head Coach at first-team level.

The Black Cats are believed to be moving towards the appointment of former Bristol City boss Lee Johnson.

Speakman has asked for ‘patience’ as he works towards the long-term objectives, but also said that improving the team’s results in the short-term is a major priority.

“I have been tasked with delivering a best-in-class player development model from the academy through to the senior squad and given a realistic timeframe and budget with which to do so,” he said.

"It is an absolute honour to have been invited to do this at one of England’s biggest clubs.

“The blueprint for the future and the ambition to create a sustainable structure with a clear identity is one I will work diligently and passionately to bring to fruition for Sunderland fans. I’m grateful for the autonomy granted me by the ownership group to pursue this plan and create something we can all be proud of.

“We understand the frustration of the present circumstances and whilst we seek patience and continued support for the longer-term objectives, we are absolutely determined to fix key issues in the short term to establish a winning team. The task of appointing a Head Coach who is both aligned to the overall plan and capable of impacting the team’s performance and style in the immediate weeks and months is a priority above all else.

“I fully understand the potential of the football club and I’m looking forward to working collectively with staff, players and fans to restore the club to its rightful place in the Premier League. There’s no doubt about the size of the task ahead of us and the need to be pragmatic in our approach, but we all share the same dream and the work starts now to make this a reality.”

The club statement added: “After departing Birmingham City following an outstanding 14-year tenure, Speakman will lead SAFC’s overall football programme, including player identification, development and acquisitions across the first team and academy.

“Working alongside Chief Executive Officer Jim Rodwell, he will also take primary responsibility for reviewing and implementing new strategies to develop the club’s footballing infrastructure, with an emphasis on data analytics and innovation, and providing a clear pathway from the younger age groups to the first team.”

Speakman began his career at Derby County, but has worked at Birmingham City since 2006 and played a key role in the rise of players such as Jude Bellingham, Nathan Redmond and Demarai Gray.

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