Sunderland appoint Billy McKinlay and Robbie Stockdale to take joint caretaker charge
Wednesday 1 November 2017 18:44, UK
Billy McKinlay and Robbie Stockdale will jointly take caretaker charge of Sunderland following Simon Grayson's sacking.
Both took training on Wednesday and will be in the dugout for Sunday's Tees-Wear derby, live on Sky Sports.
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Stockdale has been first-team coach for three years, while McKinlay was promoted from scout when Grayson's assistant Glynn Snodin became ill last month.
A statement on the club's website said: "Sunderland AFC have placed Billy McKinlay and Robbie Stockdale as joint caretaker managers ahead of this weekend's Tees-Wear derby.
"The pair take temporary charge after Simon Grayson parted company with the Black Cats following last night's draw with Bolton Wanderers at the Stadium of Light.
"A further announcement regarding the vacant manager's position will be made in due course."
Sky sources understand funds are available to pay compensation to another club, but only if it was affordable.
It is believed they are keen to find a manager who can strike the balance between making them hard to beat, but also winning the supporters back over.
McKinlay, who had an eight-day spell in charge of Watford three years ago, and Stockdale are former Scottish internationals.
Grayson was sacked 16 minutes after the final whistle blew on Tuesday's 3-3 draw at home to bottom side Bolton after overseeing just one win in 15 Championship matches in charge.
Sunderland have not won a home match in 19 attempts - since December last year - which equals a British record.
