Sunderland have attempted to update their supporters with the ongoing developments involving manager Sam Allardyce.

Earlier on Wednesday, reports claimed that Allardyce would be named as the new England boss within the next 24 hours but the Black Cats chief was present in the dugout for the 3-0 victory over Hartlepool United.

There has been no official word from the Football Association but soon after the final whistle in their game against their fellow North-East side, Sunderland released a statement.

It read: "Naturally we are aware of the intense media speculation this evening, however, at the present time Sam Allardyce remains Sunderland manager.

"We share in the anger and frustration of our supporters and would like to assure them that we are working to conclude the matter in the best interests of Sunderland AFC."

Allardyce was only placed in charge at the Stadium of Light in October but he was able to keep the club in the Premier League with one game to spare.