Sunderland fans are delighted with the announcement that manager Phil Parkinson has been relieved of his duties.
The Black Cats were held to their fifth draw of the season this past Friday, after surrendering their 1-0 lead against Fleetwood Town, which left them eighth in the League One table, seven points behind leaders Hull City.
Parkinson was hired in October 2019 thanks to his experience in getting teams out of the third division - leading a cash strapped Bolton Wanderers to promotion in 2017 - with the primary aim of getting Sunderland back up to the Championship.
However, the club missed out on even the play-offs last season and the underwhelming start to the current campaign has resulted in Parkinson's sacking, with assistant Steve Parkin also leaving the Stadium of Light, with just 19 wins in 48 games in charge.
A statement from the club said: "Sunderland AFC has today parted company with manager Phil Parkinson.
"The 52-year-old was appointed in October 2019, overseeing a total of 47 matches during his 13 months at the Stadium of Light.
"Assistant manager Steve Parkin also departs, and the club would like to place on record its thanks to both Phil and Steve for their efforts during their time at SAFC.
"Preparations for Tuesday’s Sky Bet League One fixture against Burton Albion will resume on Monday, with first-team coach Andrew Taylor taking charge of the squad.
"The board will now begin the search for a new manager and will make no further comment until this process is completed."
While some fans have taken the time to wish Parkinson the best of luck for the future, most were just happy to hear the news.
Former Wigan Athletic manager Paul Cook is the early favourite to be appointed as next Sunderland manager, with Danny Cowley, Lee Johnson and Darren Moore all touted.
An outside bet at 12/1 is former manager Roy Keane, who led the club to the Premier League during his time in charge.
