And now, the managers are feeling the heat! Steve Bruce has been sacked as Sunderland manager following a disastrous start to the season. He became the first casualty of the season.

The team have won just two of their 13 opening League matches in this season. They are in the 16th position in the Premier League, with two points clear of the relegation zone.

Sunderland lost 2-1 to Wigan on Saturday which turned out to be the last nail in Bruce’s coffin. “"This has been a difficult time for everyone at Sunderland and is not a situation that any of us envisaged or expected to be in,” the Sun has quoted the team chairman Ellis Short as saying.

"It is my job as chairman to act in the best interests of our football club at all times and I can assure everyone that this is not a decision that I have taken lightly. Steve has acted with honesty and integrity throughout, which is testament to the character and commitment he has shown during his time at Sunderland,” he added.

Assistant manager Eric Black will be handling the team's responsibilities till a new successor to Bruce is found.