ST MIRREN chief Tony Fitzpatrick has confirmed Jack Ross' departure to take over at Sunderland, describing the Scotsman's exit as "like a death in the family".

Ross is set to be confirmed as Sunderland's new manager later today, and the 41-year-old will be accompanied by his long-term number two, James Fowler, who will be installed as the Black Cats' new assistant boss.

The St Mirren hierarchy did everything they could to try to keep Ross at the Paisley Stadium, but have been forced to admit defeat in their attempts to prevent the former Hartlepool United full-back moving to the Stadium of Light.

Speaking to the Paisley Daily Express, Fitzpatrick said: "There is no other way to describe it, it really feels like there has been a loss in the family. That’s how deep it goes for everyone here at the club.

"It can’t be understated just how big a job that Jack has done with St Mirren, he has pulled us all back together and it is for that reason that it is really devastating to see him leave the club.

"But you have got to remember football moves on quickly, life moves on quickly and we have already got to look to the future. Although we are naturally disappointed that Jack has left, we always knew that one day this would come around.

"Jack has ambition and this was obviously an opportunity that he felt couldn’t let pass him by. I’m sure that I speak for the vast majority, if not all, of the supporters in thanking Jack for his efforts and helping us create memories that will last a lifetime in the minds of the fans.

"He said he wanted to take us back to the Premiership – and he did that and more. He made an unquestionable impact on St Mirren Football Club and for that reason I would never say a bad word about Jack Ross.

"He has left a legacy and I think it is apt that he has received his reward for that."