O'Neill, 59, met Black Cats chairman Ellis Short for a second time on Friday in an attempt to thrash out a deal after positive talks on Thursday night, albeit talks which broke up without an agreement in place. It is understood slow progress is being made as the fine details are discussed, and that negotiations could continue into the weekend. However, if the former Northern Ireland international does finally put pen to paper, he will do so with the blessing of Manchester United boss Ferguson. Asked about O'Neill's candidacy on Friday, the Scot said: "Martin has a very good track record. "The job he did at Villa Park was excellent, he did a great job at Celtic, he won the League Cup with Leicester, so Martin has got the experience and track record to do well. "If that's the job he's going to, I'm sure he will do well." O'Neill has been out of the game since leaving Aston Villa on less than friendly terms in August last year, but enjoys popular support in Sunderland. His name has been on the lips of the majority of supporters whenever the post has become vacant, and they will hope the outstanding issues can be resolved swiftly to allow an appointment which would bring new hope to Wearside. A dismal start to the season has yielded another derby defeat to Newcastle and just two victories in 13 Premier League games, the 11 points gathered leaving the Black Cats 16th in the table, only two points clear of the relegation zone. Sunday's visit to Wolves and next weekend's clash with lowly Blackburn at the Stadium of Light will be followed by a series of more testing fixtures against Tottenham and QPR away and Everton and Manchester City at home. Sunderland desperately need a marked upturn in fortunes to avoid heading into the new year facing a battle for top-flight survival. In the meantime, Bruce's assistant Black will take charge of team affairs. He and the players received a visit from former chairman Niall Quinn, who informed them of the latest developments, at the Academy of Light on Friday morning, and the Scot quickly turned his attention to the game at Molineux. Black told the club's official website: "It is important that everyone is focused on the game and prepares in the right manner, so that's what we will be concentrating on today and tomorrow. "Naturally it's a difficult time for everyone at the club, but we have to be professional and get on with the job in hand."
