The Chosen Gone: Moyes resigns as Sunderland boss

Matt Stead

Sunderland have announced that David Moyes has resigned from his position as manager after the club’s relegation.

The Black Cats finished bottom of the Premier League this season and were the first club to learn their relegation fate back in April.

Moyes was appointed as Sam Allardyce’s successor last summer, but failed to inspire any fight from a squad that surrendered meekly to the Championship.

Speaking about the decision, chairman Ellis Short stated: “I pursued the services of David Moyes for a considerable period prior to his appointment last summer, which makes the announcement of his departure difficult for everyone concerned.

“Having worked tirelessly throughout the campaign to avoid relegation from the Premier League, David has chosen to leave the club without compensation, which is testament to his character.

“In the days ahead we will take some time for reflection, and then focus on recruitment and pre-season as we prepare for our Championship campaign. We wish David well in the future.”

Moyes added: “I would like to thank Ellis Short and the Board for giving me the opportunity to manage Sunderland and the fans for always being so passionately supportive of their club.

“I wish the players and my successor well in their efforts towards promotion back to the Premier League”.