A week ago today,
Sunderland parted company with manager Paolo Di Canio after a mere 13 games in charge of the North East outfit. It was a decision so abrupt that it might have been surprising had it not been for the hostile footballing climate Premier League managers are living in these days. It was also a decision that, going off recent results and
past political statements and allegiances, cannot really be argued against. A divisive character, the fiery, outspoken Italian proceeded over a run of form at the Stadium of Light that left the Black Cats rock bottom of the Premier League with just one point from an available 15. Di Canio's axing came following four defeats in five league games and leaves Sunderland looking for their sixth permanent manager in less than five years. For now, Kevin Ball has taken control of the reins but he could not find a way to plug the leaks yesterday as Liverpool's 3-1 win condemned the Black Cats to a six-game win-less streak. And as the club steps up their pursuit of a new manager, here, we run the rule over 5 Candidates To Replace Paolo Di Canio. Click "Next" to begin.