adminLONDON. — English Premier League soccer strugglers Sunderland have entrusted Gus Poyet with the responsibility of securing their top-flight survival, announcing yesterday that they have appointed him as manager on a two-year contract. The 45-year-old Uruguayan, who previously worked at second-tier Brighton and Hove Albion, succeeds Paolo Di Canio, whose seven-month tenure left the northeast club at the foot of the table.
Di Canio was sacked last month with Kevin Ball placed in caretaker charge and Poyet arrives to find the club six points adrift of safety with only one point from their first seven games.
“I look forward to proving my ability to the fans — I want them to believe, because we need to stick together,” Poyet told the Sunderland website.
“I think the key behind my strong home record at Brighton was the connection with the fans. I can see that here also.
“It’s a huge challenge, but one I am excited about and I am grateful for the opportunity to manage in the Premier League.” Sunderland’s Texan owner Ellis Short, who conducted a two-week search for Di Canio’s successor, said he was convinced he had found the right man for the job.
“We analysed a wide range of candidates and believe that Gus’s track record, experience, commitment and passion make him the right man to take us forward,” he said. “We welcome him to Sunderland.” — AFP.
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