Former Chelsea and England left-back Graeme Le Saux feels that Dick Advocaat may not have been able to confirm whether he is remaining as Sunderland boss due to negotiations regarding his departure and his replacement.
It has been speculated that Advocaat is set to depart his role at the Stadium of Light, but following Sunderland's 2-2 home draw with West Ham United earlier today, the Dutchman was unwilling to confirm or deny whether he will still be in charge for the club's next game.
Le Saux feels there is certainly something going on behind the scenes at Sunderland, but is of the opinion that Advocaat may be prevented from being open about the situation.
And that may be to do with negotiations surrounding his departure and the announcement of his replacement.
"They also need to replace him, so there's a conversation and negotiation to be had with someone who would replace him", Le Saux said on the BBC's Final Score.
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"And that's all about timing, it's like buying and selling a house.
"You've got to make sure everything is in place before you get the deal done.
"So you can't read into it too much and maybe we have to accept that something is going on behind the scenes", the former defender continued.
"Clearly that's not the normal way to come out and do an interview about your position.
"So I presume from that point of view that there is something else going on."
The international break now kicks in, meaning Sunderland have two weeks until their next match, ample time to resolve Advocaat's position at the Stadium of Light.
Their draw with West Ham today sees the Black Cats sitting second bottom of the Premier League.
