Sunderland confirm Michael Beale exit

Sunderland have confirmed that they have parted ways with head coach Michael Beale and have replaced him with Mike Dodds on an interim basis.

Ever since Beale was appointed as the replacement for Tony Mowbray on December 18, there has been somewhat of a backlash from supporters who were left disappointed with Beale's arrival.

The Englishman had previously been sacked as Rangers boss, despite winning 31 of 43 matches, and losing to Coventry City in his opening home game did not help matters.

Despite briefly instigating an upturn in fortunes, Beale has now been removed from his position in the dugout after just 12 games in all competitions.

During his two-month stint, the 43-year-old delivered 14 points from his 11 Championship fixtures in charge, as well as losing 3-0 at home to rivals Newcastle United in the FA Cup third round.

Back-to-back defeats at Huddersfield Town and Birmingham City left the Black Cats hierarchy with a decision amid growing frustration among the fanbase, and with the club now four points adrift of the playoffs.

🗞 Mike Dodds has been appointed interim Head Coach until the end of the season, replacing Michael Beale who departs the Club with immediate effect.#SAFC

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) February 19, 2024

As a result, Beale has been sacked, his departure leading to Dodds resuming the interim role that he held before Beale was selected as the permanent successor to Mowbray.

Speaking to the club's official website, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: "We are disappointed that Michael is leaving Sunderland AFC. Our desire is to improve and unfortunately that hasn't been evident, as such we take full accountability and feel that acting decisively is in the best interests of the club.

"This has been a difficult few months for Michael, who leaves with our best wishes for the future. Our focus is now on the players and supporting Mike Dodds in the remaining games to ensure we achieve the highest possible league finish.

"We will be updating our supporters further as and when significant developments are made."

Dodds has previously been caretaker boss on two occasions, winning two - both of which came earlier this campaign against West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United respectively - and losing three times in his five games.

Sunderland are next in action when they play host to Swansea City at the Stadium of Light on February 24.