NOTW:
Niall Quinn's takeover bid forSunderland is backed by mega-rich Irish pair JP McManus and Dermot Desmond
The ex-Republic of Ireland striker hopes to seal a deal for his former club within two weeks.
Quinn has been in constant negotiations recently in an effort to buy out chairman Bob Murray.
The news his consortium can call on the financial muscle of the likes of Desmond and McManus, proves he has the ability to pull off a deal.
There will be cash to strengthen the squad and attract a top-flight boss.
One name already in mind is Martin O'Neill, who is also being linked with the England, Newcastle and Middlesbrough jobs.
The former Celtic boss has close links with Desmond, a major shareholder at Celtic, and McManus, who sold his stake in Manchester United to Malcolm Glazer.