Black Cats hand Ricky gaffer reins
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Sunderland have appointed Ricky Sbragia as permanent manager on an 18-month contract following his successful spell as caretaker.
The Scot, 52, has been handed deal until the summer of 2010 by chairman Niall Quinn as the reward for his four games in charge as caretaker, which have brought two victories, a draw and a single defeat, and that away to Manchester United.
Sbragia succeeds Roy Keane, who resigned earlier this month after 27 months in the belief he had taken the club as far as he could.
Quinn said: "Ricky Sbragia is a thoroughly professional football person.
"We have been taken aback by how easily he has slotted into the managerial role and are really heartened by his intelligent approach in dealing with the players and the day-to-day rigours of the job.
"Ricky took up the reins when we were at low ebb and has without doubt revitalised the club.
"He is the unanimous choice of the executive board and will receive every support in his new role. The ownership of the club have also fully endorsed the appointment.
"I'm sure all of our fans, and the players too, will give Ricky their full backing in his first senior management position."