On this day in 2015, Sam Allardyce was appointed manager of Sunderland.
On this day in 2015, Sunderland appointed Sam Allardyce as their new manager on a two-year contract.
Allardyce took over for Dick Advocaat, who left the Black Cats in the Premier League relegation zone.
Allardyce, a former Sunderland defender, became the first person to manage both the Black Cats and their archrivals Newcastle, the only team below them in the standings.
“Sunderland is a club he knows well, and he was the obvious best choice for the job,” Sunderland chairman Ellis Short said.
“He has vast experience of managing in the Premier League and an understanding first hand of the north east and the passion of our fans, which will stand him in great stead.”
Allardyce had only been in command of Newcastle for eight months, but he had since rebuilt his reputation with successful stints at Blackburn and Fulham.
“I’ve enjoyed my break from football, and I’m excited to get back,” he remarked. I met with Ellis and we talked about the club and his goals, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
“Of course, it’s a difficult job, but it’s something I’ve done before.” I’m looking forward to working with the players and, of course, I’ll be depending on the Sunderland fans, whose incredible passion I’ve witnessed firsthand. I’m excited to get started.”
Allardyce was appointed England manager in July 2016 after successfully rescuing the Black Cats from relegation. He was only in charge for one game and 67 days before quitting by mutual agreement due to charges of malpractice.
