First interview: Ross ready to rock 'n' roll

Jack Ross is ready to rock ‘n’ roll following his appointment as Sunderland’s new manager.

The former St Mirren boss can’t wait to get stuck in and has immediately pinpointed the relationship between the club and the fans as a key foundation for success.

During his time at the Paisley 2021 Stadium, Ross took the Buddies from basement boys to champions within the space of 18 months, while also reconnecting the supporters and the club.

And speaking to safc.com, the new Sunderland manager echoed Stewart Donald’s vision of a club that wins together, loses together and above all else, works together.

“It’s a fantastic honour because I understand the magnitude of the job and the size of the club,” said Ross.

“Probably the biggest attraction is the potential of the club, as well the fans and history, but that potential to hopefully take it back through the leagues again is one that really excites me.”

He continued: “There are a lot of parallels between the job I’ve done recently and the position Sunderland find themselves in, so hopefully that will stand me in good stead.

“I’m from the outside looking in until I get started properly, but the one thing I know I don’t have to worry about is the loyalty of that fanbase and its passion for the club.

“It’s been the one constant over the last few years during difficult times, so my job – how it’s been described to me and how I want it – is to rebuild the club from inside out, and if I can do that then hopefully we can re-establish that connection between the club and its supporters.

“That’s vitally important and, as I mentioned, that’s something I had at the job I’ve just finished, as when I took it there was a real disconnect.

“I pride myself on how I communicate with everybody and I’m looking forward to rebuilding that connection, because if you get that connection right it’s bloody powerful.

“It is a real privilege, and I can’t wait to get started.”