Coleman up for biggest challenge of his career

Chris Coleman considers himself “lucky” to have been offered the Sunderland job despite inheriting a club engaged in a desperate fight to avoid relegation to League One.

Eyebrows were raised when it emerged the 47-yearold, who guided Wales to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, had accepted the Sunderland job.

But despite his profile having risen markedly as a result of his success with his national team, Coleman insists he was not tempted to wait for an offer from a Premier League club after deciding the time to quit the Wales post had come.

“I said that when I took my last job that the challenge was tough b e cause of the circumstances, replacing my friend Speeds (Gary Speed)”, Coleman said at his first press conference as Black Cats boss.

“The challenges in that job were completely different.

“This is the biggest club I’ve ever managed, possibly the biggest club I’m ever likely to manage, so it’s a huge challenge, it really is.

“Many managers go throughout their career without managing a Sunderland, regardless of where it is. I might have gone through my career as well... I think I’m lucky to sit here and be in charge of this club.

“Yes, we’ve got to push it forward. It’s a massive, massive challenge, but one I’m ready for, totally committed to and excited about.

“You take a job and think you can affect the situation. That’s what you do. You’re always optimistic.”

Coleman’s comments came as news of Tony Pulis’ exit from West Brom was announced, creating a new vacancy for which he would undoubtedly have been considered if still available. Sunderland’s size and history meant the opportunity to make a difference here was one he could not resist.

He said: “People are saying they’re surprised I’ve gone here. Why are they surprised I’ve gone to Sunderland? Three or four years ago, I would never have got this job.

“I had a good time with Wales and I’m deemed fit to get a job like this. I’m absolutely thrilled to be here,” he added.