After Jack Ross’ dismissal, a host of names were rumoured to be interested in coming to the Stadium of Light, with experienced heads and up-and-coming managers alike reportedly eyeing the vacancy. And while Parkinson was ultimately the man chosen by Stewart Donald, who else was in the frame? Scroll down and click through the pages to see all the Sunderland-linked bosses who missed out on the job:
9. Paul Cook
Similarly to Clough, Cook was one name the Black Cats were understood to be interested in opening a dialogue with - only for Wigan to refuse them permission to speak to their manager. Photo: George Wood
10. Mark Robins
Robins and Coventry knocked-back an approach from Sunderland - with the manager then signing a new deal with the Sky Blues. Photo: Linnea Rheborg
11. Ian Holloway
'I'd run up there!' was Holloway's response when asked if he'd be interested in the Sunderland job, but the ex-Blackpool and QPR manager wasn't viewed as a potential replacement for Ross. Photo: Jordan Mansfield
12. Kevin Phillips
Phillips told TalkSport he held talks with the Black Cats but, with the club seeking an experienced appointment, he was always an outsider for the role. Photo: Nathan Stirk