Sunderland have seen their fair share of manager’s in recent seasons, and the experienced Paul Bracewell and Robbie Stockdale have seen many come and go. New manager David Moyes confirmed that the pair would stay on with him as a new era on Wearside begins.
Bracewell, assistant manager, and Stockdale, first team coach, were both part of Sam Allardyce’s backroom staff, but since the arrival of Moyes the pair have remained and have worked closely with the Scot in the Black Cats’ tour of France.
Speaking at his first press conference as Sunderland boss, Moyes said: “My plan is to keep both Paul Bracewell and Robbie Stockdale, I will make changes in some areas but ideally I’m going to try and go along.”
Moyes shows recognition
The former Everton and Manchester United boss acknowledged the hard work the duo had put into keeping the Black Cats in the Premier League after surviving relegation last campaign. He also said: “I don’t want to disrupt anything because this club has had too many disruptions in the past.”
Sunderland fans have been crying out for a manager to stabilise them as a Premier League side after years of battling relegation, and Moyes may just be that man.
“Let’s see if we can get a wee bit of continuity, and if we can get that level of stability that allows us to progress because that will be the most important thing,” the 53-year-old said.
How will the pair contribute to Moyes' management?
Both Bracewell and Stockdale will benefit Moyes’ management in different ways.
Bracewell previously played for the club, making over 100 appearances in two spells. He also has managerial experience, managing both Fulham and Halifax Town.
As well as Bracewell, Stockdale has brilliant knowledge of the youth sides and will give the new boss an idea of youngsters who may be ready to make the step-up to the first team.
The trio will manage their first competitive match of the 2016/17 season on August 13, when they travel to the Etihad Stadium to play title favourites Manchester City.