Rangers assistant boss Ally McCoist is being linked with the vacant manager's job at Sunderland.

The Daily Express says McCoist, who spent two seasons on Wearside from 1981 to 1983, scoring just eight goals in 56 appearances, is keen to move into management as soon as possible.

Walter Smith is expected to stand down as Rangers boss at the end of next season, but McCoist may still be tempted by an immediate move.

McCoist, 46, who won 61 full Scotland caps, has turned down managerial vacancies north of the border, but would consider an offer from the Sunderland board.