Stoke City have hired Alex Neil as their new manager after he was released by Sunderland.

The 41-year-old was appointed by the Black Cats in February, leading them to promotion to the Championship from League One.

However, he has now been poached by Stoke to manage the bet365 stadium club for the next few years.

Sunderland released a statement that reads: "Sunderland AFC can confirm that Alex Neil has joined Stoke City with immediate effect.

"The 41-year-old expressed his desire to leave the Club on Friday morning despite signing an improved contract at the Stadium of Light earlier this month.

"SAFC made an immediate offer to further significantly enhance Neil's terms on Friday afternoon, but he declined this proposal to remain on Wearside and reiterated his desire to leave the Club.

"He has now finalised a move to the bet365 stadium and the process to appoint a new Head Coach is underway."