McCarthy stays put, Sunderland opt for Wilkinson

The rumour mill was proved wholly inaccurate this morning when Sunderland named Howard Wilkinson as their new manager.

Mick McCarthy

Since the sacking of Peter Reid on Sunday, speculation had been rife on both sides of the Irish Sea that Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy would succeed him at the Stadium of Light.

Bookmakers refused to take bets, "informed" sources in Dublin and on Wearside claimed it was a done deal and McCarthy's ghost-writer and friend, Cathal Dervan, let it be known that the 43-year-old would be interested if offered the job.

But when the Black Cats called a press conference for 11 a.m. today, it was to unveil veteran Wilkinson and not McCarthy as the man they believe can guide them to Premiership safety. It is understood Sunderland did not approach Mick about the position.

Sunderland have installed former Stoke manager Steve Cotterill, who only tendered his resignation this morning, as Wilkinson's assistant. Both are on contracts running until the summer of 2005.

The appointment of Wilkinson will raise a few eyebrows in football circles. The 58-year-old FA technical director and former Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday boss has not been involved in club management for five years and was initially not even thought to be in the running.

Although many have criticised the gruff Yorkshireman's tactics in the past, there is no doubting his management credentials.

Successful spells at Notts County and Wednesday were followed by an eight-year reign at Elland Road where in 1992 he guided them to their first title since 1974. His sacking, in 1996, was seen by many as harsh and he has twice since managed the England national team in a caretaker capacity.

Speaking at this morning's press conference, Wilkinson said: "It is clear to me that this is a club with a proud tradition, huge and faithful support and in the Stadium of Light and academy, facilities that will be second to none.

"I feel that I have benefited massively from my time as Technical Director at the FA. It was a great opportunity to take a step back from the narrow focus that club management can have and look at the new and modern developments that were occurring in the game".