Birmingham City defeat nail in coffin for Sunderland boss Michael Beale

Sunderland are understood to have parted ways with head coach Michael Beale following the Black Cats' 2-1 defeat at Birmingham City on Saturday.

Our sister publication The Sunderland Echo reports Beale will leave the Stadium of Light after losing to Blues, managed by his Black Cats predecessor, Tony Mowbray. Beale didn't take Monday's training session at the Academy of Light. It's expected an announcement will follow to confirm the manager's departure.

Sunderland hoped Beale, who has previously managed Glasgow Rangers and Queens Park Rangers, would be the man to guide them to the Premier League. That wish hasn't transpired, however, with just four wins in 13 matches. There have been seven defeats in that run, and two draws.