Steven Schumacher: Plymouth Argyle boss flattered by Sunderland link

Steven Schumacher took over as Plymouth Argyle manager on 7 December 2021 following predecessor Ryan Lowe's departure for Preston

Plymouth Argyle boss Steven Schumacher says he is flattered to be linked to the vacant manager's job at Sunderland.

The Black Cats sacked Tony Mowbray earlier this week with Schumacher, 39, among the favourites to take over.

He is the joint-second longest serving manager in the Championship alongside Ryan Lowe - who Schumacher succeeded when Lowe joined Preston two years ago.

"It's not the first time that it's happened, hopefully it won't be the last time," he told BBC Radio Devon.

"I think if you're getting linked to top jobs like that then it shows that you're doing something good in the job that you're currently at.

"I don't let it affect me, I think it's just part and parcel of the game."

Schumacher led Plymouth to the League One title last season with 101 points, holding off Ipswich Town and Sheffield Wednesday despite both of those clubs arguably having greater resources at their disposal.

This season, Argyle have made a solid start and sit 16th, six points and six places above the relegation zone despite having one of the Championship's smallest budgets.

Schumacher says he is not aware of any approach for his services from any other club.

"I'm a young manager - that's the trend at the moment, clubs are going for young managers," Schumacher said.

"I'm a manager that's been pretty consistent over the last two years and had some success, so hopefully that continues and the speculation continues, but at this time I've got a job to do."

He added: "If the fans don't want you to go then that shows you're doing something right.

"But in general I think everybody understands that there is going to be a time in the future where a club comes along and I feel as though 'OK, this might be the right opportunity' if we're still doing really well.

"I think most football fans and people would understand that, and when the right opportunity comes I'll know and we'll get that sense, but at this moment in time I'm in the perfect place.

"I'm learning all the time, I'm making mistakes, I'm getting better at making decisions and getting better tactically.

"I feel as though this league is testing us all the time, which is what we wanted and what we expected, and all of us as a staff are learning.

"There's no rush, I'm still only young, there's no rush for me to move anywhere, I'm in a brilliant place."