Martin O'Neill to succeed Steve Bruce as Sunderland manager

Former Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has been appointed as Sunderland's new manager.

His appointment comes after former manager Steve Bruce was sacked following a series of disappointing performances by the team.

O'Neill has signed a three-year deal with the Black Cats after Bruce's departure.

"It's a very nice feeling to be back in football and to be the manager of Sunderland. It's a big moment for me. I'd heard about what a good club it was but coming here, seeing the stadium and training ground, I've been bowled over. It's absolutely fantastic," The Sun quoted O'Neill, as saying.

"I hope I can help Sunderland to very successful period. That's what I've come for and that's my driving ambition," he added.

Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short described O' Neill as the perfect choice for the post.

"Martin has as good a managerial pedigree as you could wish to find. During his time at Aston Villa he established the club firmly in the top 10 of the Barclays Premier League year on year and this is something we are striving to achieve at Sunderland," Short said.

O'Neill has been regularly tipped for vacant posts at high-profile teams in the last 12 months and was the bookmakers" favourite.

The Black Cats, who have won just two of thirteen games this season, are currently two points above the Premier League relegation zone. (ANI)