The Derby County coach is reportedly keen on taking the manager role at Sunderland.
Sunderland’s Stadium of Light
It’s been a bitterly disappointing season for Sunderland supporters. After such an excellent end to their last campaign under Sam Allardyce, many Black Cats fans were hoping the club was beginning to head in the right direction.
However, after Allardyce’s departure, and turning to former Manchester United manager David Moyes, Sunderland have regressed, and have now been relegated to the Championship after an awful season. Moyes resigned, and Sunderland have been left back at square one.
Sunderland manager David Moyes
It’s going to be crucial that the Black Cats get the next appointment right, as the club look to avoid becoming one of those teams who become stuck in the Championship for years and years. Sunderland would be wise to someone who has the club itself at heart, and that man could well be former striker, Kevin Phillips.
Currently a coach at Derby County, Kevin Phillips is reportedly keen on the position at the Stadium of Light, according to the Daily Mirror. Phillips is a popular figure at Pride Park, having joined the Rams in 2015. Phillips has worked under four different managers during his time at Derby, including Paul Clement, Nigel Pearson, Steve McClaren and Gary Rowett.
Derby assistant coach Kevin Phillips
As one of the most famous and beloved ex-Sunderland players, “Super Kev” would likely have the fans on board from day one. After spending the last two years coaching in the Championship, Phillips would also come with a ready-made knowledge of the division, and how to compete in it.
With Sunderland desperate to get back up to the Premier League at the first time of asking, the club will need to be sure they are right call this time around, and the idea of appointing a manager with no previous experience of running a club might seem daunting. However, with a new chapter being turned, and a fresh start wanted by fans, now might well be the perfect time to give Kevin Phillips his big chance.
Kevin Phillips – Sunderland
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