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"He remains highly respected in the world of football, and I know we couldn't have attracted a manager of his calibre just five years ago at Roker Park," he said.
"The Wilkinson and Steve Cotterill team was a key determinant of our decision to make this appointment.
"We believe this partnership will reap rewards as it brings a complimentary blend of experience and achievement, with technical expertise and new ideas.
"While they may be from different eras, both Howard and Steve have impressive CVs, outstanding technical skills as well as the highest coaching qualifications in the game.
"I know Howard is hungry for a new challenge and very ambitious to achieve things at Sunderland. In the short term the priority must be to improve our league position and secure our Premier League status.
"Once we have achieved that we will need to consolidate to get back to the position we had progressed to in the League, before we can move forward and build on this.
"Finally, I must once again thank the Sunderland fans for their enormous patience and continued support in what have been trying times.
"I hope all supporters will join me in welcoming Howard and Steve to Sunderland and get fully behind the team as we move forward."
