“Ridiculous” - Tony Pulis delivers scathing Sunderland verdict on Tony Mowbray saga | OneFootball

Tony Pulis was hugely critical of Kyril Louis-Dreyfus’ decision to sack Tony Mowbray as Sunderland boss earlier this year, as he claimed that the football world wanted them to struggle as a result.

Sunderland’s Tony Mowbray decision backfires

The Black Cats turned to Mowbray just months after their promotion back to the Championship when Alex Neil decided to controversially leave for Stoke City.

It was a decision that appeared to be inspired, as Mowbray built a stylish, attacking side that would manage to reach the play-offs.

Even though they lost to Luton Town over two legs, it was clear that Sunderland had made significant progress under Mowbray, and they seemed like a club heading in the right direction.

The current campaign was tougher, and Mowbray was sacked in December, when the side were ninth in the table.

Given that it was the first real struggle under Mowbray, along with the fact that the play-offs were still a very realistic goal, it was a decision that was viewed as harsh by many observers.

In hindsight, it’s certain to be a decision that Sunderland regret, as Mick Beale was named as Mowbray’s successor, and he lasted just two months, as a poor run of form left them out of the mix for a top six finish.

Mike Dodds is now in temporary charge, with a new boss to be named ahead of next season.

Tony Pulis slams Sunderland’s Tony Mowbray treatment

Results have shown that Sunderland’s call to replace Mowbray has not worked out, and there is now pressure on Louis-Dreyfus and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman to get the next appointment right.

But, speaking to FLW, ex-Middlesbrough chief Pulis explained that the lack of football know-how has been a major problem for Sunderland, as he was heavily critical of the way they treated Mowbray.

“There's a lot of people behind the scenes who aren't football people, and they make unbelievably bad decisions.

“What the hell were they up to getting rid of Tony Mowbray? He's a staunch football man who knows how to build a winning team. When they sacked him, the majority of football wanted Sunderland to struggle because Tony Mowbray did not deserve it.

“The biggest mistake owners make is not appointing an experienced man behind the scenes. If Sunderland had an experienced football person or someone who had been in the game for a long time behind the scenes, they would have told Kyril Louis-Dreyfus that it was an absolutely ridiculous decision to get rid of Tony Mowbray.”

Sunderland preparing for huge summer

Pulis didn’t hold back with his verdict here, and whilst some may feel it’s harsh, it gives an insight into what those who have been in the game think of Sunderland’s decisions this season.

They’ve made some big mistakes, and opting for Beale to replace Mowbray is one that didn’t work out.

But, they have to make things right, and there’s not much to be gained for Sunderland to keep going over the error, as it’s now about looking forward and ensuring they get the right candidate this summer.

Sunderland are still an attractive option, and they have a good squad, even if it’s weak in certain areas. So, this summer is about getting a new head coach in place, and then strengthening the group, as they have to push for the play-offs at a minimum next season.