Former West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is reportedly being considered by Sunderland in their hunt for a new head coach.

The Black Cats are without a leader just eight games into the Premier League season after Dick Advocaat decided to leave the club at the weekend.

The Dutchman initially turned down a deal to join the Black Cats after helping them survive relegation last season, but he made a late U-turn.

After three draws and five defeats, Advocaat opted to walk away from the Stadium of Light, leaving the North-East outfit without a manager once again.

According to The Shields Gazette, Sunderland are yet to place a candidate at the top of their wishlist, but Allardyce is one of the coaches being considered for the role.

The 60-year-old is currently out of work after leaving West Ham at the end of last season following a four-year spell.

It is believed that Allardyce contacted Sunderland regarding the job prior to Advocaat's appointment in the summer.