Ex-Sunderland striker Dwight Yorke has applied for the vacant manager's role at the Stadium of Light.
The 46-year-old, who has completed his coaching badges, feels that he could be the perfect man to replace Simon Grayson at the helm.
The Black Cats sit bottom of the Championship facing the potential of back-to-back relegations, and Yorke believes that he could provide the boost the side needs to kick-start their season.
"The place needs a lift, something new, something exciting," the Tobagonian said on talkSPORT.
"I have tried to get hold of [chief executive] Martin Bain and left a message or two to see if there is any comeback.
"They have gone for experience in the past. They have tried that and it hasn't quite worked out. Why not give it to someone new who is really eager to prove he can do the job?"
Sunderland host Millwall on Saturday, knowing that a win could take them as high as 21st.
