Ross Gregory has revealed that a 'wildcard' manager is now 'in the frame' for the Sunderland job along with the heavily reported Alex Neil and Grant McCann.
The Lowdown: Manager circus continues
After it was revealed earlier this morning that Roy Keane would no longer be in contention to replace Lee Johnson at the Stadium of Light, new names have been put into the hat for who will take over from temporary boss Mike Dodds.
Sky Sports report that Alex Neil is now in advanced talks to take charge on Wearside, while Football Insider claim that Grant McCann is set to be appointed.
Nonetheless, it is now anyone's guess who will be the one to walk through the doors.
The Latest: 'Wildcard' option
As per Reach PLC journalist Gregory, a third 'wildcard' option is now 'in the frame' for the job, alongside Neil and McCann:
"There's 3 candidates still in the frame for the Safc job.
"Grant McCann. Alex Neil. And a third 'wildcard' option."
The Verdict: Exciting
It is a relief that the Black Cats are already nailing down other candidates straight away in spite of Keane's snub, and a 'wildcard' manager does sound rather intriguing.
The Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope has since named a few more coaches that could emerge as contenders, and it is not clear who exactly the board are going to opt for, with Neil Lennon mentioned once more.
What is for sure is they need to appoint someone before this weekend's game against AFC Wimbledon, to get themselves back on track for promotion and halt the absolute mayhem this manager search has become.
In other news, find out who SAFC's three worst players against Cheltenham Town were here!