Sam Allardyce not the ideal man, but by far the best option

Southend United manager Phil Brown has brushed aside links with a coaching role at Sunderland, telling talkSPORT he is “flattered” by the speculation.

The pair have worked together on two previous occasions, with Brown operating as Allardyce’s assistant first at Blackpool and then in a six-year spell at Bolton Wanderers.

“Sunderland is a fantastic club with fabulous supporters and I’m really looking forward to the challenge of improving results and keeping Sunderland in the Premier League”.

Nolan, 33, is a free agent having been released from Allardyce’s former club, West Ham United, in the summer upon the expiry of his contract.

Allardyce, who left West Ham at the end of last season, was Short’s first choice to try to save the club from relegation.

He admitted: “I have fond memories of the Roker roar (when Sunderland played at Roker Park) as a player”.

With Lee Congerton set to leave his position as sporting director after submitting his notice last month, Allardyce will be granted considerable control over transfer matters. His three predecessors all recorded victories. Having committed to a number of promotional dates, it remains to be seen how he combines his book duties with his new role at Sunderland.

Apart from anything else, staying up would make Sunderland a more attractive proposition if Short eventually chose to sell the club. It’s been a decision fans in north London have been delighted with ever since.

“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”.

Big Sam, 60, knocked back Sunderland’s initial approach to replace Dick Advocaat, as he enjoyed a break from the game.