JURGEN KLINSMANN has insisted he will not be the next manager of Sunderland after speculation he was being lined up for the job at the Stadium of Light.

World Cup winner Klinsmann, who has been out of work since being sacked by United States in November, has been heavily linked with the post in recent days.

It has been suggested the German consortium interested in buying out Ellis Short were ready to make the legendary German striker the manager if successful.

But the 52-year-old has rubbished the theory. After attending a concert in Los Angeles, he dismissed the claims.

In a post on his Facebook account, Klinsmann wrote: "Had a blast last night at STYX concert at the beautiful Greek Theatre in L.A. What a fantastic venue!

"On another front: no truth on rumours coaching Sunderland FC in the near future."

Sunderland have been without a manger for over five weeks since parting company with David Moyes. The search for a replacement has problematic because of the ongoing talks over a potential takeover.

The German group are still the leading contenders to takeover from Short and have also been credited with an interest in Union Berlin’s Jens Keller.

Sunderland chief executive Martin Bain was unable to persuade Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes to take on the job, with the players due back for pre-season training on Thursday.

Robbie Stockdale, the first team coach, will preside over the sessions until a permanent manager is confirmed. Preston's Simon Grayson is still the favourite for the job.