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David Moyes resigns as Sunderland manager 'without compensation'

David Moyes has announced his resignation as Sunderland manager
David Moyes has announced his resignation as Sunderland manager

David Moyes has resigned as Sunderland manager, just one day after leading the club to last place in the Premier League table.

It has been a nightmare season for the Black Cats, who spent 261 days inside the relegation zone and spent the last 27 weeks of the season dead last.

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However, Moyes told Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short of his change of heart in London this morning.

In a statement, Short said, “I pursued the services of David Moyes for a considerable period prior to his appointment last summer, which makes the announcement of his departure difficult for everyone concerned.

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“Having worked tirelessly throughout the campaign to avoid relegation from the Premier League, David has chosen to leave the club without compensation, which is testament to his character.

“In the days ahead we will take some time for reflection, and then focus on recruitment and pre-season as we prepare for our Championship campaign. We wish David well in the future.”

Moyes said, “I would like to thank Ellis Short and the board for giving me the opportunity to manage Sunderland and the fans for always being so passionately supportive of their club.

“I wish the players and my successor well in their efforts towards promotion back to the Premier League”.

Sunderland finished 16 points from safety with only six league wins all season and only Hull had a worse goal difference than the Black Cats’ -40.

Moyes had previously spoken about his desire to manage Sunderland next season, even after the Black Cats’ relegation to the Championship had been confirmed.

Moyes was engaged in controversy after telling the BBC reporter Vicki Sparks that she might “get a slap” over her line of questioning during an interview. He was charged by the Football Association.

Ryan Giggs has been installed as the favourite with the Bookies to replace Moyes, at 9/2, while Garry Monk and Alan Pardew are not far behind at 9/1. Sunderland legends Niall Quinn and Kevin Phillips are also on the shortlist at odds of 14/1 and 20/1 respectively.

Meanwhile, former Newcastle manager Steve McClaren is at an outside 40/1 to take over Sunderland.

In another blow to Sunderland fans, star striker Jermain Defoe has opened talks with Bournemouth over a possible transfer. The England international is able to move on a free following relegation under the terms of his contract.

Defoe enjoyed a spell on loan at Bournemouth from West Ham in the 2000-01 season and has great affection for the club. He is also an admirer of their manager, Eddie Howe. Other clubs are also attempting to sign the 34-year-old, including West Ham.