Sunderland could reportedly name Sam Allardyce as their new manager this evening.

The former West Ham United boss became an early contender for the role following the resignation of Dick Advocaat last weekend.

Allardyce, who has been out of work since leaving the Hammers in the summer, has been in talks with the Black Cats for the last 48 hours, and according to The Shields Gazette, a deal is close to being agreed.

Allardyce, who is believed to currently be in Spain, was part of the North-East outfit for a season during his playing career in the 1980s.

Sunderland are second from bottom in the league table after failing to pick up a single victory in eight games.