Former Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren is favourite for the Sunderland job after Martin O'Neill's dismissal last night.

The Daily Mail says McClaren, out of work since resigning from FC Twente on February 26, emerged last night as the favourite to take over, although his history as Middlesbrough manager would make him an unpopular choice.

Roberto Di Matteo, sacked by Chelsea, and former QPR and Manchester City boss Mark Hughes will also be front runners to replace O'Neill, while Brighton manager Gus Poyet could also come into contention.