Stan Collymore: 'John Robertson absence cost Martin O'Neill'

Former Leicester City striker Stan Collymore feels that the decision of John Robertson not to join Martin O'Neill at Sunderland was pivotal in the 61-year-old's sacking as the club's manager.

O'Neill and the Black Cats parted company after just 16 months together at the Stadium of Light following the team's 1-0 defeat to Manchester United.

He told talkSPORT: "John Robertson was the conduit between player and manager.

"He hasn't had that sounding board with John Robertson, Robbo decided not to make the trek up north and from what I understand JR almost had enough of the modern-day footballer.

"I think in terms of this season Martin O'Neill just hasn't looked himself. I think that has had a massive impact."

Sunderland are just a point above the relegation zone in 16th place in the Premier League.