Sunderland are expected to appoint former Blackburn Rovers boss Tony Mowbray as their new manager imminently.
The Lowdown: Mowbray’s career
Arriving at Ewood Park in February 2017 with Blackburn second-bottom of the Championship table, the 58-year-old led the side to automatic promotion from League One the following season after their inevitable relegation from the second division.
After missing out on the Championship play-offs and promotion to the Premier League last season due to a disappointing end to the 2021/22 campaign, Mowbray left the club after five years in charge, relinquishing his title as the league’s longest-serving manager.
Previously, during his three-year stint at West Brom, the Englishman led the Baggies to the 2007/08 Championship title, securing promotion to the Premier League.
The Latest: Hunter’s news
After Alex Neil vacated his position as Sunderland boss, speculation had Mowbray down as the favourite to take on the role.
James Hunter has now shared an update on the Black Cats’ managerial search, revealing that a deal is now close to being finalised.
Taking to Twitter, the reliable journalist claimed:
“Tony Mowbray is due at the AoL this morning and is expected to finalise deal to take over as #safc's new head coach.
“Possible he could take training today ahead of tomorrow's game against Rotherham.”
The Verdict: Safe appointment
According to The Northern Echo, even if the Wearside club do confirm his appointment later today, it is unlikely he will be in charge of the side for their home fixture against Rotherham United.
Instead, his first game as manager is more likely to come in the Tees-Wear derby against Middlesbrough, whom he managed between 2010 and 2013, during which Boro averaged 1.44 points per game.
With the likes of Scottish champions Celtic and also Coventry City on his CV, Mowbray’s wealth of experience suggests he is a good appointment for Sunderland, who will surely be prioritising stability in their first season back in the Championship.