The Sunderland Echo journalist Joe Nicholson has revealed that nothing has been agreed yet for Tony Mowbray to become Sunderland's next manager.

The Lowdown: Neil departs

It was reported by journalist Alan Myers on Saturday afternoon that Alex Neil has agreed to take the manager's job at fellow Championship club Stoke City, duly leaving his position at the Stadium of Light, with the Black Cats confirming the news on their official website earlier today.

Alan Nixon also shared that Mowbray is expected to become the Wearsiders' new manager.

The Latest: No Mowbray agreement

Taking to Twitter, Nicholson revealed that 'nothing has been agreed' with Mowbray at this juncture, seemingly contradicting Myers' report.

The Sunderland Echo reporter tweeted: "Understand nothing has been agreed with Tony Mowbray at this stage."

The Verdict: Time needed

Neil's departure to Stoke came almost out of the blue, so Sunderland need to take their time in order to get their new managerial appointment right.

Milton Keynes Dons manager Liam Manning and Chelsea first-team coach Anthony Barry are two other names who have emerged as contenders for the vacancy alongside Mowbray, so it seems as if the Black Cats' board are currently assessing their options.

Nonetheless, losing Neil to a fellow Championship rival is a big blow given his role in guiding Sunderland to promotion last term, added to the good start that he made to this season with two wins and two draws in his first five league matches (Transfermarkt).

The board must not panic now and instead take their time to ensure that the right manager is appointed to replace the 41-year-old.