Michael Beale breaks Sunderland sacking silence as ex Rangers boss thanks fans for touching gesture

Michael Beale has spoken out on his Sunderland sacking.

The former Rangers boss was axed by the Wearside club after just 12 games in charge., despite signing a two-and-a-half year deal in December. He lost half of his matches in the Black Cats dugout, including a 3-0 home FA Cup defeat to bitter rivals Newcastle United. He was not a popular choice to replace predecessor Tony Mowbray, who was ironically in the touchline for Beale's last match in the hot seat; a 2-1 loss to Mowbray's Birmingham City.

Now Beale has released a statement thanking various members of the board. And he reserved special mention for the fans after a touching gesture against Plymouth It read: "I am disappointed to have left Sunderland after a short time at the club. I wold like to say a big thank you to the players who were excellent to work with. The squad has a lot of potential and I will follow their progress with great interest in the coming weeks and months.

"I would also like to extend my thanks to all the staff, both at the training ground and the Stadium of Light, for the quality of work, as well as their friendship.

"The communication with Kyril, Kristjaan and the board was always open and honest, and I wold like to place on record my sincerest thanks for their support during a tough period personally.

"To the fans - I would like to thank you for the support shown to me and my family during the recent game against Plymouth Argyle. In this gesture, you showed huge empathy and warmth and that is something I will never forget.

"I wiash everyone associated with Sunderland AFC all the very best for the future."