Simon Grayson asks to speak to Sunderland about manager job after approach

The Championship club released a statement today saying the Black Cats had approached them about the 47-year-old, with a view to him replacing David Moyes.

The statement said: "Preston North End have today been contacted by Sunderland Football Club to ask permission to speak to Simon Grayson in relation to their vacant managerial position.

"Having spoken to Simon, he has asked permission to speak to the Black Cats and therefore the club had no option but to allow these conversations to take place, with a compensation package already guaranteed in his contract.

"Whilst these talks are ongoing, Steve Thompson will be in charge of first team affairs.

"The club will make no further comment at this stage."

Grayson has been the bookies favourite since Derek McInnes rejected the chance to replace Moyes earlier this month.