Former Newcastle United boss Graeme Souness has defended Alex Neil's decision to swap Sunderland for Stoke City.
Neil was confirmed as Stoke's new manager on Sunday after just seven months in charge at the Stadium of Light. On Friday, Sunderland gave Neil permission to speak to the Potters and he watched their win over Blackburn Rovers from the stands a day later.
The 41-year-old enjoyed a successful spell in charge of the Black Cats, leading them to the Championship via a play-off final win at Wembley, but the manner of his exit left a sour taste in the mouth of Sunderland followers.