Sbragia appointed Cats boss

Sunderland have ended their search for a new boss after handing the job on a full-time basis to
caretaker manager Ricky Sbragia.

Sbragia, 52, had been in temporary charge of the Black Cats following Roy Keane's resignation at the beginning of December.

The Scottish coach had led the club to two wins, one draw and one defeat from his four games at the helm and the board at the Stadium of Light claim he was their unanimous choice for the job on a permanent basis.

Sbragia, who was part of Keane's backroom staff, has been handed an 18-month contract.

"Ricky Sbragia is a thoroughly professional football person," chairman Niall Quinn told the club's official website.

"We have been taken aback by how easily he has slotted into the managerial role and are really heartened by his intelligent approach in dealing with the players and the day-to-day rigours of the job.

"Ricky took up the reins when we were at low ebb and has without doubt revitalised the club.

"He is the unanimous choice of the executive board and will receive every support in his new role. The ownership of the club have also fully endorsed the appointment.

"I'm sure all of our fans, and the players too, will give Ricky their full backing in his first senior management position."

Sbragia, who will be in full-time charge for the first time at Everton on Sunday, added: "I'm delighted to have been offered the opportunity to manage a club as big as Sunderland and I'm relishing the challenge ahead.

"My main priority is moving up the Premier League table and ensuring we have unity and stability at the club.

"I've been extremely pleased by the commitment shown by the players to date and the support we have all received from the fans.

"We travel to Merseyside this afternoon and I can hardly wait."