Two Ex-Sunderland coaches look ahead to new challenges at Hibernian and Kilmarnock

John Potter was Sunderland's first-team coach during Jack Ross time at the club.

Potter left Wearside when Ross was sacked by Sunderland last month, a decision which brought an end to the Scot’s 18-month tenure.

Ross was appointed at Hibs last week, and when asked if it was a no-brainer to follow his former team-mate, Potter told Hibernian’s club website: “Yeah, look I loved my time at Sunderland, I learnt a lot.

“I learnt how to deal with different things, different players, different personalities, club fans.

“It gave me an opportunity to work with Jack again first and foremost and at a massive club like this, it’s one I wanted to do and one I’m looking forward to.”

Another man who is looking forward to a new challenge after leaving the Stadium of Light is Ross’ former assistant James Fowler.

Fowler was named Kilmarnock's head of football operations last week and was also asked about his time at Sunderland alongside Ross.

“I loved that experience there,” Fowler told Killie’s official website when asked about the Black Cats. “The club is huge and the demands are huge,”

“The club is going through a bit of a transitional period compared to where it used to be which meant there was a lot of work behind the scenes to do.”

Despite Ross’ sacking, Fowler also believes his former colleague did a good job in the North East after taking over in difficult circumstances following relegation to League One.

“Speaking to anyone in football they say that you always want to leave a football club in a better place than you found it,” added Fowler.

“I think Jack did that, he is an excellent coach and someone who I think is going to do really well in the game.

“I loved living in the North East of England, but the lure of coming back to Kilmarnock was too much and I felt the time was right to take this opportunity.”