Luke Edwards has now put a timeframe on when Sunderland fans can expect an announcement on their new manager.

The Lowdown: Who is in the running?

There have been a number of different names thrown into the mix over the past few days with regards to who is in line to replace Lee Johnson at the Stadium of Light.

The likes of Neil Warnock and Roy Keane have been mentioned as potential contenders, while Neil Lennon and Grant McCann are also thought to be options.

Nonetheless, a decision is unlikely before their match against Doncaster Rovers in League One on Saturday, but could be made soon with more crucial games coming up.

The Latest: When can we expect an announcement?

Taking to Twitter, the Daily Telegraph journalist Edwards has now claimed that a decision should be made on the new manager by the start of next week 'at the latest', with reference to Keane specifically 'considering' whether he should take it:

"I would have thought by the start of next week at the latest. I think someone is just trying to protect themselves if he (Keane) says no."

The Verdict: Exciting

It is certainly exciting for the Black Cats faithful that they should expect a new manager to be brought in soon, hopefully injecting some much-needed life into their faltering season.

Although Keane seems to be one of if not the frontrunner, it is anyone's guess over who the board will eventually decide to hire.

Nonetheless, SAFC need to get this appointment right so that they can implement their ideas quickly for the promotion push - whoever they name will be their sixth permanent boss since relegation from the top flight.

In other news, find out what big manager update James Hunter has dropped here!