Sunderland receive Steve Cooper response as former Nottingham Forest boss discussed

Steve Cooper has been linked with Sunderland

Darren Bent says he’s “shocked” former Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper has not landed another job yet amid links with Sunderland.

The Black Cats are looking for a new manager after sacking Michael Beale on Monday. Cooper, who departed the City Ground in December and was replaced by Nuno Espirito Santo, has been linked with taking charge at the Stadium of Light.

And speaking about the Sunderland job on talkSPORT on Tuesday, Bent said: “It’s a big gig. It’s a big, big job that. Steve Cooper potentially, and the fact that he hasn’t got a job yet, I am shocked about.

“I did think that Steve Cooper would maybe get a Premier League job because I think he is that good.”

Cooper was previously linked with taking over from Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace, but the Eagles have appointed Oliver Glasner.

Sunderland have appointed Mike Dodds as interim head coach until the end of the season. Their sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: “We are disappointed that Michael is leaving Sunderland AFC. Our desire is to improve and unfortunately that hasn’t been evident, as such we take full accountability and feel that acting decisively is in the best interests of the Club.

“This has been a difficult few months for Michael, who leaves with our best wishes for the future. Our focus is now on the players and supporting Mike Dodds in the remaining games to ensure we achieve the highest possible league finish. We will be updating our supporters further as and when significant developments are made.”

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