HINDSIGHT is a wonderful thing, but the vast majority of supporters will not be the slightest bit surprised that Howard Wilkinson failed to be the club's saviour.

Surprised at the timing of the announcement, perhaps, but not by the end result.

They viewed his appointment - alongside an assistant most North-East fans had not even heard of - as unambitious at best, disastrous at worst.

Sadly, the latter has proved to be the case and even diehard Sunderland fans, who have had their noses rubbed in it by a buoyant Newcastle team, are finding it hard to see a glimmer of hope.

The clear signal from last night's surprise announcement is that a new manager has already been identified. Club chairman Bob Murray announced that Wilkinson's successor would be in place before the crucial game against Bolton at the weekend.

This time it must be an appointment which will make fans believe that their beloved club has a fighting chance to rebuild.

Sunderland have arguably the most loyal supporters in the country. Even with their club playing mundane football, and languishing at the foot of the Premiership, they have turned up in vast numbers.

But many, already resigned to life in Division One next season, are planning to save the money they habitually spend on season tickets. Loyalty only stretches so far - even in football-mad Sunderland.

Football is a vital part of the North-East's culture. The region needs successful teams competing in the Premiership and Sunderland supporters deserve to be rewarded with top class entertainment.

That is why the club must learn from the mistake of the Wilkinson appointment. Sunderland need a manager who can make the fans believe that decline is not inevitable, who can produce football which will excite them.

Modern day football is all about big business and we acknowledge that a financial tightrope has to be negotiated.

But the supposed safe option has palpably not worked. Now it is time for bravery, vision and ambition - the thousands of fans who pay hard-earned money week in week out deserve nothing less.