Sunderland AFC are pleased to welcome Tony Coton back to the club, as head of recruitment.

The 57-year-old returns to Wearside with a wealth of experience under his belt, having played a key role in Aston Villa’s recruitment drive in recent years as chief scout.

Speaking about Tony’s appointment, chairman Stewart Donald said: “I am delighted to welcome Tony to Sunderland. Recruitment is fundamental for any football club and in Tony we have a man with significant experience and contacts in this vital area.

“He is passionate, honest and hard working – the exact qualities we want in anyone coming to this football club. He has a tremendous knowledge of English football and understands what characteristics are required, on and off the pitch, to achieve success.

“Tony played a vital role in reshaping Aston Villa’s squad and ensuring it was equipped to do well in the Football League. Working alongside Jack, his appointment will help ensure we can hit the ground running and attract the right type of players to Sunderland.

Tony added: “I am incredibly excited about returning to Sunderland as a new era starts and the rebuilding begins.

“Having met Jack Ross, I have been hugely impressed by his vision of how he wants his Sunderland team to play and I am enthused by the challenge of bringing in the players we need to realise that vision.

“Between Jack, myself and the rest of the recruitment staff, I am confident we can help build a team that can take the club forward and I am excited to get started.”

Coton spent six months at Roker Park as a player before a broken leg unfortunately ended to his playing career. He then made the transition into coaching and became Manchester United’s goalkeeping coach, before commencing a career in player recruitment.

He became chief scout at Wigan Athletic in 2014. He also worked as a scout for Bolton Wanderers before moving to Aston Villa in 2015.