One option for Sunderland owner and chairman Ellis Short when looking for a replacement for Paolo Di Canio is to appoint from within. A former Sunderland player who enjoyed a nine-season stint at the club as a midfielder between 1990-99, Kevin Ball is a familiar face on Wearside and a likable character with the fans. One criticism is that the 48-year-old lacks in managerial experience in that he has only taken charge of the Black Cats in a caretaker capacity. However, this is a role he has filled twice now, the other time being the 200506 season following the sacking of Mick McCarthy. Ball has previously stated his desire to take over the role on a permanent basis and perhaps this is the right time to finally give him his chance. It would be a fitting reward following his seven seasons serving the club.