EPL side Sunderland confirmed that it gave the FA permission to speak to Manager Sam Allardyce about the England manager’s position, asking for a "swift resolution" to the matter in order to stop the "extremely damaging" uncertainty as it prepares for the new season, according to Oliver Kay of the LONDON TIMES. Allardyce "is understood to have been interviewed for the England vacancy" at the Cheshire home of FA Vice-Chair and former ManU CEO David Gill. FA Chair Greg Dyke and CEO Martin Glenn "are understood to have been present and it is not yet clear how many other candidates will be interviewed." Sunderland hoped that the process "would remain confidential," in accordance with its agreement with the FA, but after pictures of Allardyce at Gill’s house "emerged overnight," the club has urged the FA "not to drag out the process any longer than is necessary." Sunderland said in a statement, "Sam is very much key to our plans. After what was an extremely challenging season, we are keen to see a period of stability, both on and off the field, and we want him to remain as manager of our football club. The ongoing speculation over Sam’s position is extremely damaging to Sunderland AFC, particularly at this crucial time of the season and we urge the FA to respect the disruption that this process is causing and bring about a swift resolution to the matter" (LONDON TIMES, 7/13).
