Strachan Favourite to Take Over as Sunderland Manager

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has emerged as the front runner to replace Ricky Sbragia as Sunderland manager in the summer. Sbragia revealed that he was to step down as Mackems manager after securing their Premier League survival on Sunday afternoon.

In the aftermath, the likes of Frank Rijkaard, Martin Jol, and Slaven Bilic, who have previously been linked with the job, were put to chairman Niall Quinn as potential successors, but he insisted the club would take their time in deciding who takes the reins at the Stadium of Light.

Steve Bruce has also been mentioned as a possible candidate to take over as Black Cats boss, but it seems unlikely that he will want to leave Wigan Athletic, especially as he is a boyhood Newcastle United fan. With Strachan being held in high esteem down in England, he is definitely the front runner for the Sunderland job.

Celtic were pipped to the Scottish Premier League title on Sunday and it has been rumoured for some time that Gordon Strachan is to walk away in the summer. Sources close to the Strachan have suggested that he will leave Celtic Park, despite guiding the Bhoys to SPL success in 2005-06, 2006-07, and 2007-08, as well as winning the Scottish Cup in 2007 and the Scottish League Cup in 2006 and 2009.

The 52-year-old has already experienced management roles in England with Coventry City from 1996-2001 and Southampton from 2001-2004.

Celtic Fans Views

“If Strachan goes could we end up with worse. I agree he has to go but the thought of Owen Coyle, Mark Mcghee, or Alan Curbishley fills me with dread.”

“To end up with worse than Strachan would be pretty hard, even for our board.”

“If Strachan does leave, we need an experienced coach. Forget Coyle, the job is too soon for him and I hope he doesn't get it.”

“We’re not going to get a good experienced manager. The days of Hiddink etc. linked with Celtic are long gone. I would take Coyle.”

“The fucking b*****d is no longer welcome at Celtic Park. He better f*****g resign.”

“The decision should be taken out of his hands, but the spineless w*****s that inhabit our boardroom won’t sack him.”