Sam Allardyce looks to be the overwhelming favourite to become the new England manager.

The former Limerick FC boss has been given permission to speak to The FA, his club Sunderland have revealed on Wednesday morning. Allardyce, along with Eddie Howe and Steve Bruce look the most suitable domestic candidates to replace Roy Hodgson.

Despite numerous reports of interest from The FA toward American manager Jurgen Klinsmann, US Soccer have yet to receive a request from Wembley.

In a statement, released on Wednesday morning, Sunderland want "a swift resolution to the matter", with the Premier League beginning next month.

"The Football Association contacted Sunderland AFC to seek permission to speak with our manager as part of what was supposed to be a confidential discussion process with potential candidates for the position of England manager.

At Sam Allardyce’s request, we agreed to this.

Sam is very much key to our plans. After what was an extremely challenging season, we are keen to see a period of stability, both on and off the field, and we want him to remain as manager of our football club.

The ongoing speculation over Sam’s position is extremely damaging to Sunderland AFC, particularly at this crucial time of the season and we urge the FA to respect the disruption that this process is causing and bring about a swift resolution to the matter."

Allardyce previously interviewed for the job in 2006, before it was given to Steve McClaren.