Jack Ross: Sunderland given permission by St Mirren to speak to boss

Jack Ross guided St Mirren to the Scottish Championship title in 2017-18

Sunderland have been given permission to speak to St Mirren boss Jack Ross about becoming their new manager.

Ross, 41, guided the Paisley side to the Scottish Championship title this season, and has also had talks with English second-tier club Ipswich Town.

Sunderland owner Stewart Donald says the parties have "agreed terms and the contracts are with the lawyers".

Ross would succeed former Wales boss Chris Coleman at the relegated Championship side.

"St Mirren Football Club can confirm we received an approach from Sunderland AFC this afternoon for permission to speak to our manager Jack Ross," said a statement from the Scottish club.

"After agreeing to our terms we have reluctantly given them permission to speak to Jack about their vacant managers' position."

Former Eastleigh owner Donald, who completed his takeover on Monday, had previously ruled out a return for former Wales boss Coleman, who was appointed in November 2017.

"The man in question is absolutely thrilled, which is what we want, and I'm absolutely delighted that he's coming, so that's exciting for us," Donald told Talksport, without naming the identity of their preferred candidate.

On Monday BBC Scotland reported Ross had been offered an improved deal to stay with St Mirren after he had met with Ipswich for talks over their managerial vacancy last week.

Donald, who has bought Sunderland from Ellis Short, has also confirmed former Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy will not be returning to the Stadium of Light.

"I am expecting there to be news on that very soon. I'm hoping that by the end of the day [Wednesday], we can reveal that," he added.