Poland boss Leo Beenhakker is in the frame for the Sunderland job.

The Mirror says in a dramatic, but deeply considered, change of strategy chairman Niall Quinn and his board are looking towards the appointment of a proven global manager as the man to succeed Roy Keane.

Beenhakker, Holland's answer to Sir Bobby Robson in terms of popularity, longevity and reputation, has been placed at the top of their managerial short-list alongside Gerard Houllier and Alan Curbishley, the former Charlton and West Ham manager.

Beenhakker's case is being pushed by the Black Cats' new commercial director Chris Woerts.

Although he has never worked in England, Beenhakker will not be a stranger to some Sunderland players.

Dwight Yorke, Kenwyne Jones and Carlos Edwards will all have great memories of their time with the famous Dutchman. During his time in charge of Trinidad & Tobago Beenhakker inspired the Caribbean stars to the unlikely achievement of reaching the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany.