John O’Shea now odds-on for manager’s job at Sunderland

Paddy Power have slashed the odds on John O’Shea being appointed permanent Sunderland manager, from 50/1 last night to 4/6 today.

The Irish defender, and former captain of the Mackems, has shot to the top of the market after a series of bets on him getting the job – and he is now the clear front-runner for the position, in another move which will raise eyebrows on Wearside.

He has surged ahead of early favourite Aitor Karanka (now 4/1) in the betting, and former Stadium of Light boss Peter Reid (5/1).

Asked about a possible step up for O’Shea spokesman Paddy Power said: “John O’Shea is an Irish footballing legend – and that kind of mythical quality seems appropriate given Sunderland’s chances of survival.

“It’s a baptism of fire for big John and his management career, but let’s hope he learned a thing or two from the umpteen bosses he worked with during the last few years at Sunderland.”

4/6         John O’Shea
4/1         Aitor Karanka
5/1         Peter Reid
7/1         Robbie Stockdale
8/1         Kevin Phillips
8/1         Ally McCoist
14/1       Nigel Pearson
14/1       Kevin Ball

The full market is on the next Sunderland is available here.

* All odds correct at time of posting.