Sam Allardyce
Sunderland fans could argue that Big Sam should be forgiven for his brief
flirtation with arch-rivals Newcastle because he did his best to get them
relegated before he was sacked by Mike Ashley. His efforts at Bolton make
him the outstanding candidate. Plus, he will have a point to prove to
Newcastle.
Phil Brown
Hull's manager was born down the road from the Stadium of Light in South
Shields and watched Sunderland as a lad, but last night he cleared the way
for mentor Allardyce. "I have to make sure the next couple of years in
Hull's history are proud moments for everybody in the area," he said.
Alan Curbishley
The prospects of the former West Ham and Charlton manager re-locating anywhere
outside the M25 seem about as likely as Roy Keane emerging as a Sky Sports
pundit. That is a shame as his credentials would greatly enhance
Sunderland's chances of avoiding relegation.
David O'Leary
Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn's former Ireland and Arsenal colleague has not
worked at the front line since making way for Martin O'Neill at Villa.
Despite his efforts at Leeds, he would be a major surprise as he is viewed
as damaged goods and would be an unpopular choice among supporters.
Steve McClaren
The mere mention might be enough for some Sunderland fans to start heading to
the Monkwearmouth Bridge thanks to his ill-fated efforts with England.
However, his achievements at Boro and now FC Twente in Holland should make
him a contender.