Atlanta Soccer News: Art, Music and Culture: Sunderland has announced it has sacked manager Steve Bruce. Bruce had been in charge of the Black Cats since June 2009.

The club's 2-1 home loss to Wigan Saturday sealed Bruce's fate. In a statement, club chairman Ellis Short said:

"It is my job as chairman to act in the best interests of our football club at all times and I can assure everyone that this is not a decision that I have taken lightly. Sadly results this season have simply not been good enough and I feel the time is right to make a change.

"Steve has acted with honesty and integrity throughout, which is testament to the character and commitment he has shown during his time at Sunderland."

Sunderland currently sits 16th in the English Premier League, with two wins, six losses and five draws. The Black Cats only managed to record a single victory, against Bolton, in their last eight Premier League matches,

"I would like to personally place on record my thanks to him for his significant contribution to our football club over the past two and a half years and everyone here at Sunderland naturally wishes him the very best for the future," Short's statement continued.

"I would also like to thank our fans, who have endured a trying start to the season. Their support continues to be the driving force behind our club and is vital as we now look to the future."