Two Championship managers are SACKED as Tony Mowbray is dismissed by Sunderland – a day after drawing Newcastle in the FA Cup – while struggling Swansea axe Michael Duff

There was a double sacking in the Championship on Monday evening as both Sunderland and Swansea made managerial changes in the dugout.

Sunderland announced Tony Mowbray had left the club just a day after they were drawn at home to Newcastle in the third round of the FA Cup.

Mowbray’s  assistant, Mark Venus, has also departed, with Mick Dodds placed in temporary charge of the first-team. 

The Black Cats featured in last season’s play offs under Mowbray before losing to eventual promotion winners Luton, however have struggled so far this season.

Mowbray oversaw 65 matches at Sunderland’s helm, recording 1.46points-per-match, after replacing Alex Neil who left to join Sunderland in August last year.

Swansea have also sacked first-team manager Michael Duff after a difficult run of form

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Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman announced Mowbray’s sacking via the club’s official website, stating: ‘This was a difficult decision to make.

‘But we remain loyal to our ambition and our strategy, and felt that now was the right moment to take this step.

‘We are now focused on identifying the right candidate and we will continue to support our coaching team and players throughout the interim period.’

Meanwhile, Swansea have decided to replace Michael Duff following a disappointing six months in charge with the club languishing near the bottom of the Championship.

The 45-year-old was given the vacancy at the Welsh side in the summer having successfully guided Barnsley to the League One playoff final last season.

Duff’s struggles eventually led to the club deciding to replace the Northern Irishman with Swansea dropping to 18th and without a win in their last five games when they beat Blackburn at the end of October.

Duff and Mowbray have been relieved of their duties at the respective Championship clubs

Mowbray guided Sunderland to the Championship play offs last season but has since struggled

Assistant manager Martin Paterson has also left his role, with fellow assistant head coach Alan Sheehan tasked with taking caretaker charge.

Swansea chairman Andy Coleman released a statement in the wake of Duff’s sacking, adding: ‘This was a very difficult decision and one that was given considerable thought and attention.

‘I acknowledge that there has been a significant amount of change at the club, both on and off the pitch, during Michael’s tenure. I consistently asked for patience as we gave him time to implement his plans and bring the squad together.

‘Unfortunately, we have seen neither the results that we expect nor the progress from the squad that we need. I believe it is now in the best interests of Swansea City to make a change of head coach.’