NEWS: Is there reason for concern given Sunderland’s protracted head coach search?

“It may not appear ideal to have gone so long without a head coach, but is it truly a problem in the long run?” queries Milo Challis

A few days ago, a friend of mine confided in me that they felt like they were in limbo because the academic year was coming to an end. They said this in a strangely philosophical manner.

Disregarding their existential predicament, I thought of Sunderland AFC right away and the parallels between the two.

“In limbo” appears to be the best way to characterize Sunderland right now, and you only have to look at “X” to see how the fans are being affected by the continuous hunt for a new head coach.

The club’s current situation isn’t good, to put it plainly, but is the length of the search a problem, and is the club in as much difficulty as some fans might suggest?

I have previously criticized Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and the board, and their actions during the previous season were quite bizarre. Notable examples include the hiring of Michael Beale and the ignominious choice that resulted in the Black Cats’ Bar being redecorated on Derby Day.

It’s simple to criticize the club’s continuous hunt for a new head coach in light of recent setbacks.

Confidence in Dreyfus and his board is at an all-time low after an incredibly mediocre and disappointing season, yet perhaps foolishly, I remain confident in their ability to find the right head coach.

To me, it feels as though the length of their search is proof that they’ve licked their wounds and learnt their lesson.

The appointment of Beale felt misguided and hasty, to put it mildly, yet it seems that this time they’re determined to do a more thorough job.

The amount of time they’re taking and the names that have seemingly been passed over suggests an air of confidence. It seems that the board are confident that their process will come good, and they appear to be retaining faith in their ability to make the right choice this time.