'Disgrace' or 'time to go'? Watch as SAFC fans give a mixed reaction to Tony Mowbray's departure

Black Cats fans have given a mixed reaction to the club’s decision to part company with Tony Mowbray with some supporters labelling the decision a “disgrace” and others saying it “was time to go”.

The club announced their decision to sack Mowbray last night (December 4).

A club statement read: “Sunderland AFC has this evening parted company with Head Coach Tony Mowbray. The Club would like to thank Tony for the positive contribution he has made throughout the past two seasons alongside his assistant Mark Venus, who also departs.”

While the decision to part company got a mixed reaction from fans shopping in The Bridges, the consensus among the majority was one of “shock” and bewilderment at the decision with the club currently in 9th position and just three points outside the playoffs. 

Ron Wills, 63, from High Barnes, used to be season ticket holder until 2019 and still follows the club.

He said: “I personally think it’s a bad decision as at this point last season we actually had less points.

“I think he has been let down by recruitment, with the biggest failing not signing a recognised striker.”   

It’s a sentiment shared by Robert West, 83, from Town End Farm who started going to games at Roker Park in the fifties and was a season ticket holder.

Robert, who lists Len Shackleton and Trevor Ford as his favourite players, said: “I don’t go now but I still follow the team on the TV and radio.