Staunton Leaves Sunderland

Steve Staunton. The Steve Staunton who played for Aston Villa and Liverpool has been let go by Sunderland as the club continue to revamp themselves on and off the pitch.

If like me you'd forgot the former Irish international was even employed by the club, let us remind you that he wasn't quite a scout, but apparently a 'match assessor'... who erm... assessed matches I assume.

Staunton came to the club with pedigree. A legend of the Irish national team as well as for the afore mentioned Villa and Liverpool, plus a brief if unsuccessful spell in charge of the Irish national side. Plus positions with Leeds United and Darlington.

A brief spell out the game and Staunton was back with Sunderland, appointed to his the Match Assessor role in 2011 under Steve Bruce, who like many ill-thought plans said at the time;

We are looking to Steve to bring a high level of expertise based on his experience.

Having continued to endure sub-standard performances, sign some pretty useless players and generally not improve a great deal apart from the fact we managed to stay in the Premier League, it's little surprise to see him go.

We also have a Director Of Football now of course, which should encompass match assessing. If like many you'd forgot Staunton was here, carry on as you were.