Deal completed: 40-year-old has formally committed to surprise Sunderland’s comeback as an interesting managerial update surfaces as the agreement gets underway… however…

42-year-old open to shock Sunderland return as intriguing managerial update emerges

Sunderland caretaker boss Mike Dodds could land the permanent job with good results but former manager Alex Neil is open to a shock return, according to reporter Alan Nixon.

Sunderland are currently under the temporary lead of coach Dodds for the third time. The Black Cats called an end to a dismal tenure of Michael Beale earlier this month and rather than embarking on a search for an external boss, the 37-year-old was handed the reins until the end of the season.

The Black Cats’ managerial position is one plenty will have an eye on ahead of the summer, and an intriguing update on the matter has now emerged.

Writing on his Patreon, reporter Alan Nixon states that current stand-in Dodds may yet land the permanent job with good results. He is said to have a close relationship with Kristjaan Speakman, the Sunderland director of football.

However, one figure keen on the job is former incumbent Alex Neil. The 42-year-old left the Stadium of Light in 2022 to take charge of Stoke City after leading the Wearside outfit back to the Championship, but has ‘unfinished business’ with the club.

A reciprocated feeling?

While Neil may well be open to returning to Sunderland, it might be hard to see that desire reciprocated on Wearside.

For starters, his decision to leave the club for a poisoned chalice in Stoke City was one that understandably angered the Black Cats faithful. It’s hard to see them welcoming him back with open arms.