Ex-West Brom, Celtic and Middlesbrough boss sacked as former Birmingham City man favourite to replace him

Former West Brom boss Tony Mowbray was relieved of his duties as manager of Sunderland on Monday night.

The 60-year-old departs the Stadium of Light after 15-months in charge, and led the Black Cats to the play-offs. At the time of his sacking, he leaves the North East club in ninth position, and now Mark Dodds has been placed in caretaker charge ahead of their weekend clash with the Baggies.

"This was a difficult decision to make," sporting director Kristjaan Speakman told the club website.

"But we remain loyal to our ambition and our strategy, and felt that now was the right moment to take this step.

"We are now focused on identifying the right candidate and we will continue to support our coaching team and players throughout the interim period."

John Eustace, sacked by Birmingham City in October, and replaced by Wayne Rooney, has been placed as the early favourite for the post.

Mowbray was the second managerial sacking in the Championship on Monday night, following Swansea City's decision to part ways with Michael Duff. Duff was relieved of his duties after less than six months in the Swans hot seat.

Club chairman Andy Coleman said: "This was a very difficult decision and one that was given considerable thought and attention.

"I acknowledge that there has been a significant amount of change at the club, both on and off the pitch, during Michael's tenure. I consistently asked for patience as we gave him time to implement his plans and bring the squad together.

"Unfortunately, we have seen neither the results that we expect nor the progress from the squad that we need. I believe it is now in the best interests of Swansea City to make a change of head coach.

Former Luton Town and Southampton boss Nathan Jones has been installed as the early front-runner to replace the former Barnsley and Cheltenham Town boss.