Sunderland sack Gus Poyet days after Aston Villa defeat due to ‘lack of progress’

Sunderland AFC have parted company with manager Gus Poyet days after their 4-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Aston Villa, the Premier League has announced.

A statement on Sunderland’s official website read: “Sunderland AFC have parted company with head coach Gus Poyet this afternoon.

“The club would like to place on record its thanks to Gus and wishes him well for the future.”

Chairman Ellis Short, who has come in for fierce criticism from Poyet’s predessecor, Paulo Di Canio, cited the club’s “lack of progress” as the reason behind the decision.

“I would like to thank Gus for his endeavours during his time at the club, in particular last season’s ‘great escape’ and cup final appearance, which will live long in the memory of every Sunderland fan,” Short said.

“Sadly, we have not made the progress that any of us had hoped for this season and we find ourselves battling, once again, at the wrong end of the table. We have therefore made the difficult decision that a change is needed.”

Sunderland sack Gus Poyet days after Aston Villa defeat due to ‘lack of progress’

Gus Poyet has been sacked as Sunderland manager just days after their 4-0 defeat at home to fellow strugglers Aston Villa.