Sacked Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is in line to take charge of South Korea.

The Telegraph says although Bruce retained the support of influential director Niall Quinn, the club's American owner, Ellis Short, decided a change was needed to stop the team sliding into an unexpected relegation battle.

Short's close business links with Korea have opened the door for Bruce to possibly become national coach.

The billionaire has spoken highly of Bruce and introduced him to key members of the country's Football Association during a trip to the Far East in October. Bruce is expected to travel to Seoul to discuss the position early in the new year.