A journalist has now explained when Sunderland are expected to appoint their new head coach.
Sunderland have had almost three months to find their next permanent head coach now, having sacked Michael Beale in February.
The former Rangers manager’s arrival was met with great frustration by supporters, and even more so when their point was proven after he was sacked just two months later.
Sunderland then opted to bring Mike Dodds back as interim coach until the summer, to give them plenty of time to find the perfect appointment.
A number of names have been heavily linked with the vacancy on Wearside, with Jermain Defoe recently discussing his eagerness to return to the club, while Will Still has recently confirmed his exit from Reims.
With the season coming to an end with their defeat to Sheffield Wednesday, fans were desperate to see the addition of a new head coach come very soon.
They were initially handed a promising update when reports claimed that they would look to make the appointment quick once the campaign was over.
However, journalist Michael Graham has now claimed they could be forced to wait until next month before a new head coach is named.
How long do Sunderland have to wait to appoint a new head coach?
Writing on X, Graham said: “On new head coach timescale: I’m told that #SAFC are not expecting to have a new man appointed for at least three weeks. Obviously will be trying to do it quicker, but that’s the current expectation.”
He was then asked whether this was due to different leagues ending at different times in May, to which he replied: “Pretty much. Plus everything just goes slower at this time of year. People go on holidays etc as soon as the season finishes.”
Should Sunderland fans be worried now?
There are two ways to look at this news, and one way is the way that many fans have taken.
The club have had months to find the perfect coach after a disastrous season, and there is absolutely no reason why they shouldn’t have a first choice practically nailed down.
However, they may well have a main target identified and, once the season ends, they could be appointed fairly quickly.
If they are to appoint someone still in a job then perhaps they are respectfully staying away until their season has come to an end.
Though that would surely suggest Danny Rohl isn’t a high priority, while you would assume discussions with Will Still could take place after he already confirmed he was leaving this summer.
It’s very frustrating but probably also quite normal when wanting to appoint a manager so soon after the Championship’s conclusion.
Fans may just have to be patient for the next few weeks, but there will be great concern if players return to training next month with Mike Dodds still taking the reins.