Chairman refuses to add to McCarthy speculation

Sunderland chairman Bob Murray has refused to confirm that Mick McCarthy will be in charge next season.

The Wearsiders host Chelsea later today knowing they look certain of a swift return to the Coca-Cola Championship.

Murray is baffled as to why Sunderland have performed so badly while Wigan and West Ham are thriving after also gaining promotion.

“Obviously a club that struggles as badly as this one on the field for points there is going to be speculation about the manager and its way forward,” said Murray, who refused to confirm McCarthy will be boss next season.

“I do not want to add to that speculation.

“I don’t think anyone could have foreseen how bad the season would be points wise.

“We were ahead of West Ham and Wigan (last season) and we spent as least as much money as them.

“Nobody would have thought they would do so well and Sunderland so poorly.

“We brought in ten players and have built on the squad from last year.

“I have a lot of admiration for the players as they are doing their best.”

Kevin Keegan has been linked to succeed McCarthy but Murray insisted: “Kevin is a good guy but he will never ever be the manager of Sunderland.”

Murray is anxious for new money to be poured into Sunderland.

“I am not prepared to take the club into receivership, ” he told Radio Five Live’s Sportsweek programme.

“Football has passed from the time when a local businessman could come be generous and make a donation.

“Someone has got to put some meaningful money in. It has to be to make a diference.

“That would be good news for me, the board and my family. We’ve been through a lot together.

“I will be always be there for the club but it needs a new investor.”