Former Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn believes Kevin Ball deserves a serious look as new manager.
Ball oversaw Sunderland's Capital One Cup win over Peterborough United.
Quinn said: "I'd give Kevin Ball a look at it. Nobody can expect Sunderland to win their next two Premier League matches against Liverpool and Man United because they're two of the best teams in the country.
"It would be wrong for people to turn around and say, 'You're on trial for the next two games'. The important things are the performance levels, the application and the dedication."