Ball in charge for Man Utd game
Sunderland have confirmed that Kevin Ball will remain in charge of the team for Saturday's Premier League fixture against Manchester United at the Stadium of Light.
The 48-year-old has acted as caretaker manager for the club's last two matches following the sacking of Paolo Di Canio.
Speaking in Sunday's match programme on the search for Di Canio's successor, chief executive Margaret Byrne said: "Clearly as a matter of priority, our efforts are presently focused on appointing a new head coach.
"As you would expect with a position of this magnitude, there has been a lot of interest, however, there is no definitive timescale on an appointment, as we are carefully examining all of the options available to us.
"I am sure that you have read and heard all kinds of rumours and speculation about potential targets but much of this is guesswork.
"We have had contact with some interested parties already and have others to speak to in the coming days.
"As soon as we have identified the right person to take the club forward we will make an announcement."