SUNDERLAND have confirmed the appointment of former Bantams boss Phil Parkinson as their new manager.

The 51-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year deal and takes over at the helm along with long-time assistant Steve Parkin.

Parkinson said: "It is both a privilege and immense responsibility to be appointed manager of this great club.

"I’ve been in football a long time now, and Sunderland’s immense history, the passion of its fanbase and its wonderful facilities are legendary within the game.

"It’s now up to me to build on the work of my predecessor and deliver the success the fans are so desperate for. This is a good squad of players, and I relish the challenge of working with them to achieve our goal of promotion from League One."

Parkinson guided Bolton Wanderers back into the Championship in his most recent managerial role before leaving the University of Bolton Stadium at the end of last season after the Trotters were relegated amid severe financial difficulties.

Sunderland chairman Stewart Donald said: "Phil has a proven track record when it comes to achieving promotion and I’m delighted to welcome him to Sunderland.

"During a rigorous recruitment process, it gradually became clear that he was the prime candidate to take the club forward. His CV put him on our short list. His references from within the game set him apart.

"I hope that Sunderland fans will all join me in welcoming him to our historic club, as we look forward to an exciting few months."

Parkinson made history with the Bantams in 2012-13, guiding them to the League Cup final at Wembley before guiding them to promotion from League Two in the same season.

He has also won promotion with Colchester United.