Sunderland sack head coach Beale after 12 games

Sunderland have sacked head coach Michael Beale after just 12 games in charge, following back-to-back Championship defeats.

However, Beale lost six games during his short stint including a 3-0 home FA Cup defeat by rivals Newcastle United.

Recent defeats by Huddersfield and Birmingham have seen the Wearsiders slip to 10th in the table.

Beale has struggled to appease Sunderland fans who met his appointment with discontent, despite the club lying just four points off the play-off places.

This exit means Beale's last two jobs have ended in disappointment, following his dismissal by Rangers last October after only 43 matches and 10 months at the helm.

More to follow.