Wednesday 20 July 2016 22:24, UK
Sunderland say they "share in the anger and frustration of our supporters" as they appear set to lose manager Sam Allardyce to England.
The 61-year-old boss is expected to be named the replacement for Roy Hodgson as England manager within 24 hours.
But no official announcement has yet been made and Allardyce took charge of Sunderland for Wednesday night's 3-0 friendly victory at Hartlepool.
And, following the match, Sunderland issued a statement in reaction to the widespread reports suggesting that the FA have decided Allardyce is the man to mastermind England's 2018 World Cup campaign.
The statement read: "Naturally we are aware of the intense media speculation this evening.
"However, at the present time Sam Allardyce remains Sunderland manager.
"We share in the anger and frustration of our supporters and would like to assure them that we are working to conclude the matter in the best interests of Sunderland AFC."
The experienced Allardyce was hired by Sunderland last October with the club already facing a tough battle against relegation after a poor start to the campaign.
Aided by some shrewd signings in the winter transfer window, Allardyce masterminded a revival, and a 3-0 home win over Everton on 11 May ensured Sunderland would remain in the top flight.
