SUNDERLAND’S FA Cup opponents, Mansfield Town, today appointed Nigel Clough as their new manager.

Clough, who has previously led Derby County, Sheffield United and Burton Albion, has signed a contract with the Stags until 2023 and succeeds Graham Coughlan, who was dismissed at the end of last month having failed to preside over a single victory this season.

It remains to be seen whether Clough will take direct charge of his new side for the first time in tomorrow’s FA Cup first-round tie on Wearside, but he will be present at the Stadium of Light following confirmation of his appointment today.

A statement from Mansfield chairman John Radford and co-chairwoman Carolyn Radford said: “Nigel has an outstanding pedigree in football and a proven track record of significantly improving the teams he has managed.

“He brings 20 years’ managerial experience to the club and can provide the stability and leadership which we require at One Call Stadium.

“Our chief executive, David Sharpe, led the process of selecting our next manager and we, along with the board of directors, unanimously approved when Nigel was recommended.

“We consider Nigel’s appointment to be a real coup for Mansfield Town and he will have our full and unwavering support.”

Clough has brought in former Nottingham Forest team-mate Gary Crosby as his assistant, while his brother Simon Clough will be head of recruitment.

He takes over a Mansfield side that currently lie in 22nd position in League Two, but that will be looking to spring a surprise as they take on Sunderland tomorrow.

Defender Ryan Sweeney is available after completing a period of self-isolation following a positive Covid-19 test. Midfielder Ollie Clarke remains out, but took part in his second training session yesterday after a calf injury. The Stags, who boast former Newcastle United defender James Perch among their first-team group, are also without wing-back Joe Riley.