Sunderland confirm Coleman as new manager

Nov 19, 2017 - 3:31 PM Chris Coleman has been confirmed as the new Sunderland manager on a two-and-half year deal.

The former Wales boss becomes the Black Cats' ninth manager in the past six seasons and replaces Simon Grayson, who was sacked at the end of last month.

A club statement read: "Sunderland AFC are delighted to announce Chris Coleman as the club's new manager.

"The Welshman has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at the Stadium of Light and arrives on the back of six memorable years as Wales boss, during which time he managed his country into the top 10 of FIFA's world rankings and an incredible run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

"The 47-year-old was highly sought-after but chose Sunderland as the fifth club of his managerial career, following spells with Fulham, Real Sociedad, Coventry and AEL."

Coleman takes over a club in crisis with Saturday's 2-2 draw with Millwall giving them an unwanted English record of 20 consecutive home games without a win.

He took charge of his first training session on Sunday morning and will be in charge of the side for the first time for Tuesday's trip to Aston Villa.

Coleman arrives with the backing of his predecessor Grayson, who urged the club hierarchy to give him time to help turn the club's fortunes around.

In an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek program on Sunday, Grayson said: "I think the biggest thing Chris will need is time because it does not happen overnight.

"You can't turn a club around so quickly when it's been through some real dark stages, and that's what he will need to make it a success again."

Source: AAP