Sunderland open talks with Sam Allardyce

Sunderland have moved a step closer to appointing a new manager after opening talks with the former West Ham gaffer Sam Allardyce, who is reportedly set to sign a short-term contract until the end of the season.

Unlike Liverpool, who have enjoyed a smooth and seamless process in naming Jurgen Klopp as their next boss, Sunderland have been frustrated since Dick Advocaat departed last Sunday.

It quickly became abundantly clear that the Black Cats had no back-up plan, with a number of gaffers appearing reluctant to hurl themselves in the mix for the vacancy.

Allardyce had been enjoyed a sabbatical since leaving West Ham in May, and despite emerging as the early favourite for the post, he at first appeared hesitant to join a club which have endured a woeful start to the season, picking up just three points from eight matches.

However, the 60-year-old is now as short as 1/8 to become the Next Sunderland Manager after opening talks with the club's owner Ellis Short, who has high hopes of announcing Big Sam as the new Sunderland boss imminently.

Sam Allardyce demands backroom shake up and guarantees over summer investment as appointment as #SAFC boss nears. http://t.co/hLJOsWjHTK

— Scott Wilson (@Scottwilsonecho) October 9, 2015

It's good to see that Big Sam is not afraid to change his mind quickly