MICHAEL DODDS could make the Sunderland manager’s job his own at the end of the season.
Dodds is starting his third spell as Black Cats’ caretaker but could be kept on if results are good.
AlamyMike Dodds could be given the Sunderland job on a permanent basis if he is able to impress[/caption]
The interim coach has a close relationship with director of football Kristjan Speakman, who will have a major say in the final decision.
But things haven’t got off to the start Dodds would have been hoping for with the 37-year-old failing to get a result in his first game in charge.
Sunderland were on the receiving end of a 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Swansea on Saturday who sit seven league places below the Black Cats.
There are other options available to Sunderland should they look elsewhere for a permanent boss.
Alex Neil is open to a return to Sunderland for a second spell at the helm of the club he previously walked out on.
Neil left the Stadium of Light to take the job of manager of Stoke back in 2022.
Bu the Scot is available once again after his move to the Potters turned sour.
The 42-year-old was sacked by Stoke in December of last year with the club flirting with relegation from the Championship.
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Sunderland will be turning their attention to the remainder of the season with the club letting fans know they will update them with any developments in their search for manager.
In a club statement last week, they wrote: “Our focus is now on the players and supporting Mike Dodds in the remaining games to ensure we achieve the highest possible league finish.
“We will be updating our supporters further as and when significant developments are made.”
Sunderland face Alex Neil’s former club Norwich next in the league with the Championship‘s 10th placed side looking to mount a late push for the play-off places.
GettyAlex Neil may make a return to Sunderland[/caption]
Neil took charge of the Black Cats for 24 games in 2022Getty