SAM ALLARDYCE is the bookmakers favourite to succeed Dick Advocaat at Sunderland.

The Dutchman’s decision to leave the Stadium of Light just eight games in to the season has left plenty of time for the next head coach to try to lift the Black Cats out of the relegation zone.

Former Newcastle boss Allardyce has been installed as the early front-runner for the post, although Burnley manager Sean Dyche is also under consideration because Sunderland’s decision makers rate him highly.

EARLY ODDS

Sam Allardyce 4/6;

Sean Dyche 3/1;

The Northern Echo: Disaster banner Sean-Dyche-action-1.jpg for the homepage

Sean Dyche

Patrick Vieira 6/1;

The Northern Echo: Patrick Vieira

Patrick Vieira

Michael Laudrup 6/1;

Harry Redknapp 12/1;

Paul Lambert 25/1;

Kevin Ball 25/1;

Frank de Boer 25/1;

The Northern Echo: Frank de Boer

Frank de Boer

David Moyes 33/1

Roberto di Matteo 33/1

Odds from Bet Victor