The Republic of Ireland boss was sacked by Sunderland in 2013.
Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill
Republic of Ireland assistant manager Roy Keane has told the Guardian that Sunderland should have stuck by Martin O’Neill.
The two currently work together with the Republic of Ireland, with Keane acting as O’Neill’s assistant with the national side.
Both are former Sunderland managers, having both worked and been sacked by the Black Cats in the past.
Republic of Ireland assistant coach Roy Keane before the game
O’Neill took charge at the Stadium of Light in November 2011, but lasted less than two years before being sacked in March 2013 with the side just a point away from the relegation zone.
His exit started a run of four managerial changes in two years at the club, and Keane has criticised the decision, saying they should have left him alone.
“Martin is old school, he likes to manage the club, whereas a lot of clubs are employing – it’s even on their contracts now – coaches,” he told the Guardian.
“Martin’s a good manager and everyone knows it, they should have just left him alone there.”
Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce
After a tumultuous few years of managerial change, Sunderland will be hoping that they are set with Sam Allardyce for a number of years.
The former West Ham boss made a big impression at the club when arriving this past season, guiding them to Premier League safety.
If they have desires to avoid relegation fight in future, then keeping him on board long term rather than their strategy of constant change will be key.
Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce
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