Sunderland are close to naming Lee Johnson as their new manager, with an announcement expected imminently.
The Black Cats were hoping to appoint a successor to Phil Parkinson ahead of their game against Wigan this weekend and talks have taken place across this week with the former Bristol City boss.
The north east outfit decided to part ways with former Bolton Wanderers boss Parkinson last Sunday after a run of five matches without a win, with the 53-year-old left having spent just over a year in charge of the League One outfit.
Kristjaan Speakman was confirmed as the club's new Sporting Director on Friday, and it is believed that the appointment led to Danny Cowley dropping out of the running for the position.
The path is now clear for 39-year-old Johnson to take over at the Stadium of Light, where he will be reunited with former captain Bailey Wright.
Former Latics boss Paul Cook and Gus Poyet had been mentioned in connection with the job, but now it appears that Johnson has impressed, with his willingness to work in a modern structure, record at promoting youth talent and being able to navigate the sale of key players all foundations of his impending confirmation.
Parkinson was criticised by some Sunderland fans for not being flexible enough with his team selection and sticking rigidly with his favoured team and system.
That will not be a problem with Johnson, who was sometimes accused of tinkering with his Robins side too much, leading to streaks of bad results to go with the good times.
Johnson presided over Bristol City's memorable Carabao Cup run in 2017/18 as four Premier League sides were overcome. But the chance to take over one of the biggest clubs in League One and add a promotion to his CV is believed to be an huge incentive for him.
Official confirmation is expected in the next 48 hours.
Meanwhile, former assistant head coach Jamie McAllister is close to being named as the new manager of Gloucester City. However, Johnson's appointment at Sunderland could yet hold sway over the former City left-back's next move.
