Southampton icon Jose Fonte could follow Tonda Eckert’s lead at Sunderland

According to journalist Alan Nixon, former Southampton defender Jose Fonte is reportedly in contention to replace Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris. Club chiefs hold Fonte in high regard as pressure builds on Le Bris, despite a recent 1-0 victory over Chelsea, due to Sunderland occupying 18th place in the Premier League with just two wins in ten matches.

The writer notes that taking the Sunderland job would represent a major first managerial role for Fonte, who retired from playing earlier in the year. Kelan Sarson draws comparisons to Tonda Eckert's successful appointment at Southampton following Will Still's dismissal, suggesting Fonte could look to emulate the German's early managerial success.