3) Paul Cook
Paul Cook is building himself a reputation as one of the best managers in the lower leagues. Ever since taking Chesterfield to the Sky Bet League One Play-Offs back in 2015, he has enjoyed plenty of success. His time at Chesterfield saw them lift the title, winning Sky Bet League Two in 2014, before finishing sixth the following year in the division above. Following defeat against Preston North End in the Play-Offs, Paul Cook decided he wanted a new challenge, and he dropped down a division to manage Portsmouth. Two years after his appointment, Cook was celebrating again, as Portsmouth won the league, and the Scouse boss had another promotion under his belt. He caused a lot of controversy in the summer of 2017, as he left Portsmouth to take charge of recently relegated Wigan, who were in the same league. However, that decision paid off, as Wigan were promoted this season, and are currently just one win away from another title.
4) Anthony Hudson
The final name on the Sunderland shortlist is somewhat of an unknown quantity. Anthony Hudson, who was born in Seattle, is currently in charge of MLS side Colorado Rapids,and has been since November 2017. Prior to his job in America, he was New Zealand’s national manager for three years, as well as enjoying a role as Bahrain’s boss. He holds the record for being the youngest manager to take a team to the Confederations Cup.
