Sunderland have sacked manager Martin O’Neill after the club lost to Manchester United today and dropped to 16th in the Premier League.

“Sunderland AFC has announced that it has parted company with manager Martin O’Neill this evening,” read a club statement. “The club would like to place on record its thanks to Martin and wishes him well for the future. An announcement will be made in the coming days regarding a successor.”

Martin O’Neill’s side put in a languid performance in their 1-0 defeat today against Manchester United at the Stadium of Light. But the poor performances from a team that have lacked confidence, speed and ability have been a consistent part of Sunderland for several weeks. The last time Sunderland won a match in the Premier League was January 19 when they defeated Wigan Athletic 3-2.

With Wigan winning today, Sunderland find themselves staring into the face of relegation, just one point above the relegation drop zone. The club faces a dizzying prospect of upcoming matches against Chelsea, the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United and a game against Everton in quick succession.

Sunderland’s American owner Ellis Short must have run out of patience with O’Neill. The club cannot afford to continue putting in results like it has been doing so. Plus, the injuries to Steven Fletcher and Lee Cattermole, who are both out for the rest of the season, make the situation even more dire.

Time is running out for Sunderland. Short will be expected to make a quick appointment to help give the club a bounce in order to try to stay up this season with just 7 matches to go.

What’s your opinion about Martin O’Neill being sacked by Sunderland? And who do you think should replace him to keep the club up? Share your feedback in the comments section below.

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