Ross sacked by Sunderland

Jack Ross has been sacked by Sunderland after Saturday’s 2-0 loss away to Lincoln City.

Ross was appointed in May 2018 by Stewart Donald with the aim of getting the club back to the Championship.

Ross led the Black Cats to the Checkatrade Trophy Final and playoff final, both of which they lost to Portsmouth and Charlton respectively.

With inconsistent results and the club sitting sixth in the Sky Bet League One table, Ross said “he did not fear the sack” when he was appointed, but patience from the board and fans has slowly eroded over the months.

“When we arrived at the club 18 months ago, we appointed Jack because we felt that he was the right man to take Sunderland forward over a number of years,” said Donald.

“Jack has worked extremely hard, and has helped us achieve stability at the club, and I sincerely thank him for his efforts. I hope and believe that he will go on to have a successful career in management.”

Assistant James Fowler will take charge of Tuesday’s game against Grimsby while the search for Ross’s successor takes place.