Newly appointed Hibernian manager Jack Ross is plotting to raid his former club Sunderland for coach John Potter, a report from a print edition of The Sun on Sunday (17/11, p67) has claimed.

Ross was sacked as Sunderland manager in early October after 15 months at the Stadium of Light, and is now back in work following his appointment by Hibs earlier this week.

According to the latest reports, it seems Ross is already making plans for his backroom team at Easter Road, with the Scot apparently keen to re-unite with Potter following the pair’s time together at Sunderland.

Potter has been with Sunderland since June 2018, when he joined the club only a month or so after Ross’ appointment, and he has been working with the club as a first-team coach ever since.

It is thought that Sunderland will demand compensation for Potter, who could be forced to take a pay cut if he is to join Hibs.

Following Ross’ departure, it has been a difficult start to life under new manager Phil Parkinson for Sunderland, with the Black Cats winning just two of their eight games in all competitions so far under the 51-year-old.

Hibernian meanwhile are currently eighth in the Scottish Premier League, having taken just two wins from their 12 league games this season, with Ross’ first game in charge of the club set to them host Motherwell on Saturday.

The Verdict

I think this will be a concern for Sunderland.

Potter may be a useful asset for them to have around right now, given he already knows the squad somewhat, meaning he could provide some valuable insight for Parkinson as he looks to turn things around at the Stadium of Light.

It seems however, as though that could be impacted by this apparent interest from Hibernian, as the chance to work with Ross could tempt Potter to once again link up with the man who brought him to Sunderland in the first place.

Even so, if Potter was to move to Hibernian, it could at least give Parkinson the chance to bring in a coach of his choosing to assist him at Sunderland going forward.