Mike Dodds explains latest on Sunderland’s search for new head coach and what he’s been told
Mike Dodds has issued an update on Sunderland’s search for a new head coach
Mike Dodds is still expecting to remain in charge for the rest of the campaign but has confirmed that Sunderland’s search for Michael Beale’s permanent successor is underway.
Dodds has taken charge of five games since Beale’s departure in February but has been unable to bring an end to the club’s winless run amid a lengthy list of injuries and suspensions. The interim head coach says that the club are open to bringing forward the appointment should they find the right candidate before the end of the campaign, but added that they are determined not to rush into a decision. As such, he is highly likely to remain in post as interim boss until the summer.
Sunderland have begun to speak to candidate on their shortlist and intend to conduct a thorough process ahead of a summer appointment.
“The last conversation I had, and this was prior to the last couple of games, was that they had shortlisted a number of potential candidates and that they were going to take their time in speaking to those people,” Dodds explained.
“They want to make sure they get the next appointment right and they don’t want to rush that decision.
Dodds is hoping that his task will be aided by the return of a number of key players for the Easter fixtures, with Luke O’Nien back from suspension. Aji Alese, Corry Evans and Bradley Dack are all expected to return to the bench while Jack Clarke and Patrick Roberts could yet make a comeback depending on how they progress in their rehab over the next week.
