SUNDERLAND have confirmed Gus Poyet's departure as head coach, with Dick Advocaat the strong favourite to replace him on a short-term basis.

Poyet took charge of training this morning, but was called into a meeting with Sunderland board members in which his exit was confirmed.

A club statement said: "Sunderland AFC have parted company with head coach Gus Poyet this afternoon.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Gus and wishes him well for the future.

"Chairman Ellis Short said: “I would like to thank Gus for his endeavours during his time at the club, in particular last season’s ‘great escape’ and cup final appearance, which will live long in the memory of every Sunderland fan.

The Northern Echo:

"Sadly, we have not made the progress that any of us had hoped for this season and we find ourselves battling, once again, at the wrong end of the table. We have therefore made the difficult decision that a change is needed.”

"An announcement will be made in due course regarding the head coach position."

Sunderland's board will now look to appoint a short-term successor as quickly as possible, with former Rangers boss Advocaat the preferred option.

Advocaat, whose close friend, Frank Arnesen, is also an associate of Sunderland sporting director Lee Congerton, has already discussed a possible move to the Stadium of Light.

He is understood to be happy to take on a role until the end of the season, although wages and a potential bonus for avoiding relegation are still to be agreed.

There is a determination that a new head coach must be in place by the time Sunderland travel to West Ham on Saturday, with the possibility of Kevin Ball returning in a caretaker role for a third time having been rejected at an early stage.

Sunderland are currently one point clear of 18th-placed Burnley with nine Premier League games remaining, with this weekend's game at Upton Park followed by a potentially pivotal Wear-Tyne derby with Newcastle United.