Jack’s the lad to take the manager’s hot seat at Black Cats
ROSS EXCITED AFTER SIGNING A TWO-YEAR WEARSIDE DEAL
SUNDERLAND have confirmed the appointment of Jack Ross as manager on a two-year contract.
He has joined the Black Cats after leading St Mirren to the Scottish Championship title and promotion to the Scottish Premier League last season.
He will be joined on Wearside by his assistant James Fowler.
A club statement said: “Jack is excited to be a part of the future we are building here.
“The fact he turned down lucrative offers from elsewhere, including clubs currently in a higher division than ourselves, is testament to his commitment and desire to succeed at this club and his belief in our vision for the future.
“He joins us following an excellent start to his managerial career, including a memorable 2017-18 campaign with St Mirren, and was deeply impressive throughout the recruitment process.
“We have acted swiftly and the hard work now continues in earnest as we look towards the ultimate goal of getting Sunderland AFC back to where it should be.”
Ross said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to take charge of an incredible club.
“If you look the history, the facilities and, most important of all, the fanbase, you can see what this club can be.
“To be part of the team to help realise that potential is something which fills me with excitement.
“From the moment I spoke to Stewart and Charlie (Methven, Sunderland director), their energy and enthusiasm was evident and I share in that.
“There is a lot of work to be done in re-shaping the squad to ensure we hit the ground running in League One and I cannot wait to get started.”
Ross is viewed as a managerial hot property after guiding St Mirren to the Scottish Championship title, finishing 12 points clear of runners-up Livingston. He had the opportunity to move south of the border in February when he was approached to take over at Championship side Barnsley - but opted to remain at St Mirren.
Sunderland were vying with Ipswich Town for Ross’ services this month but, after speaking to both clubs, he chose to spearhead a League One promotion campaign on Wearside rather than join the Tractor Boys in the Championship.
Ross’ playing career included spells with Clyde, Hartlepool United, Falkirk, St Mirren, Hamilton Academicals and Dunfermline Athletic.
After a knee injury forced his retirement in 2011, he became assistant manager at Dumbarton and later joined the coaching staff at Hearts. His first managerial job saw him take over at Alloa Athletic in December 2015.