Bookies suspend O'Neill Sunderland betting

Bookmakers have stopped taking bets on Martin O'Neill becoming the next Sunderland manager.

Steve Bruce was sacked by the Black Cats on Wednesday night after two and a half years in charge at the Stadium of Light.

It has been reported that former Aston Villa boss O'Neill has already held initial talks with the North East club.

The 59-year-old had been linked with the vacant Northern Ireland job, but he has since stressed that he would prefer a return to club management.