Martin O'Neill takes Sunderland job

Martin O'Neill has officially been appointed as the new manager of Sunderland, signing a three year contract with the Black Cats. O'Neill's first job on Monday will be to step into the place vacated by Steve Bruce, and to turn around Sunderland's worrying early season form.

Ellis Short, the Sunderland owner, had lost patience with Steve Bruce and seemingly last weekend's 2-1 defeat to Wigan was the final straw for the former Birmingham City coach.


The club owner has decided to install fan favorite Martin O'Neill in the hotseat, and the former Leicester and Aston Villa coach has been given a 30m GBP transfer kitty to boost their Premier League survival hopes.


O'Neill told the official club website: "It's a very nice feeling to be back in football and to be the manager of Sunderland. It's a big moment for me.

"I'd heard about what a good club it was but coming here, seeing the stadium and training ground, I've been bowled over. It's absolutely fantastic.

"I hope I can help Sunderland to very successful period. That's what I've come for and that's my driving ambition."