Former Sunderland and Leeds United defender Michael Gray has called on the Black Cats' supporters to back new head coach Gus Poyet.

Although some fans wanted temporary boss Kevin Ball to be given the permanent role following the dismissal of Paolo Di Canio, the North-East outfit have appointed the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager instead.

Gray wrote on Twitter: ‏"Gus Poyet was my coach at Leeds and was very good.. Nice guy and plays football in the proper way..!!! Let's get behind him."

The Uruguayan has signed a two-year contract at the Stadium of Light.