Following Steve Bruce's exit from the Stadium of Light, chief football writer Paul Fraser weighs up the merits of the candidates who could replace him on Wearside.

MARTIN O'NEILL

The former Celtic boss has repeatedly been linked with the Sunderland job over the years but has never taken it on for one reason or another. He would be an appointment welcomed by the fans and he is keen to get back in to Premier League management.

When he left Aston Villa 18 months ago, however, he is believed to have had run-ins with the club's American owner, Randy Lerner, over certain decisions over transfer policies.

Odds: 4/7

MARK HUGHES

Another candidate who has already been well talked about around Wearside and most supporters would welcome his appointment.

The former Blackburn, Manchester City and Fulham boss has been looking for a return to management since leaving Craven Cottage in the summer and has recently been linked to replacing Gary Speed as Wales boss for a second time.

Odds: 5/2

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Sunderland Managerial History

Steve Bruce (2009-2011) P98 W29 D28 L41 Win Ratio 29.6%
Ricky Sbragia (2008-2009) P26 W6 D7 L13 Win Ratio 23.1%
Roy Keane (2006-2008) P100 W42 D17 L41 Win Ratio 42%
Mick McCarthy (2003-2006) P147 W63 D26 L58 Win Ratio 42.9%
Howard Wilkinson (2002-2003) P 27 W4 D8 L15 Win Ratio 14.9%
Peter Reid (1995-2002) P353 W159 D95 L99 Win Ratio 45%
Mick Buxton (1993-1995) P76 W25 D24 L27 Win Ratio 32.9%
Terry Butcher (1993) P43 W13 D8 L22 Win Ratio 30.2%
Malcolm Crosby (1991-1993) G57 W22 D13 L22 Win Ratio 38.6%
Denis Smith (1987-1991) G229 W87 D63 L79 Win Ratio 38%

RAFAEL BENITEZ

The manager who led Liverpool to Champions League glory is desperate for a job in the Premier League and is said to be open to contact with any clubs showing ambition in the English top-flight. With Sunderland struggling at the wrong end of the division, he could have doubts, but it would also be an appointment to excite the fans.

Odds: 16/1

LEE CLARK

After much was made of Steve Bruce's Northumberland roots, particularly in the wake of Saturday's defeat to Wigan, it would be a brave decision for Ellis Short to appoint a passionate Geordie. He has undoubtedly been successful in leading Huddersfield in League One and the former Sunderland midfielder has caught the eye of a Championship clubs.

Odds: 16/1

BOB BRADLEY

Given Ellis Short's American links, former United States national team boss Bradley has been mentioned in recent days largely due to his nationality. He was linked with the job at Aston Villa in the summer because he is keen to test himself in the English league.

He is unlikely to be a popular choice among the fans, who would point to his lack of experience in the Premier League.

Odds: 22/1

Other contenders: David Moyes 16/1; Carl Ancelotti 18/1; Steve McClaren 25/1; Sven Goran Eriksson 25/1, Radi Antic 100/1.