Martin O'Neill has emerged as the favourite to replace Steve Bruce as Sunderland manager.

Bruce was sacked on Wednesday night following a run of results which has left the club 16th in the Premier League table.

O'Neill has been without a club since he left Villa in August 2010.

Meanwhile, former Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has been installed as second favourite to take over at the Stadium of Light.

Ex-Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has also been linked with the position.

Next Sunderland manager according to William Hill:

Martin O'Neill: 4/7
Mark Hughes: 5/1
Rafael Benitez: 8/1
Lee Clark: 14/1
Steve McLaren: 16/1
Carlo Ancelotti: 16/1
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: 16/1
Stuart Pearce: 16/1