Cats legend backs Wilder for new boss

CHRIS Wilder could be the man to lead Sunderland back into the big time, according to Black Cats legend Michael Gray.

The Sheffield United boss is the odds-on favourite with the bookmakers to succeed Chris Coleman at the Stadium of Light once Stewart Donald’s takeover of the club has been confirmed.

Wilder has grown concerned with an ongoing ownership battle at Bramall Lane, and has worked with Donald at Oxford United.

But while Wilder remained tightlipped on his future following the Blades’ 3-2 win final-day win at Bristol City, Gray believes the work he had done with Sheffield United this season and last shows he could succeed at Sunderland.

Speaking after a dramatic final day of action in the Championship, Football on 5 pundit Gray said: “He’s got the experience of being promoted from that division – I think he’ll get the best out of the players.

“With the recruitment at the club under the new ownership, it’s pretty rosy if everything goes to plan.”

And while Gray insists Sunderland’s recovery will be a long process, he believes both the club and Wilder have the potential to head back into the Premier League.

He added: “I think potentially it is a massive club, and if he could achieve promotion in his first season and take us into the Championship, with backing, then there’s no reason why Chris and his side, or my side, can’t go up again.

“That’s what it’s all about. I think you’ve got to get Sunderland and put it step by step, it’s not going to happen overnight.”