Former Sunderland manager Roy Keane has urged the club's hierarchy to "have a good look at themselves" as they attempt to find their seventh permanent boss since his departure.
Keane's own reign at the Stadium of Light came to an end after a little less than 27 months in December 2008 after his relationship with owner and chairman Ellis Short deteriorated.
Asked if he was surprised by head coach Dick Advocaat's departure on Sunday, the Republic of Ireland's assistant manager, speaking to the media in Dublin on Tuesday, said: "No."
Asked why not, he replied: "It's Sunderland, isn't it? It's a brilliant club, but I don't know, I really can't comment on why different managers have left or have been sacked.
"But people in the background probably need to have a good look at themselves."
Asked further if he was referring to people who were at the club during his spell on Wearside, he said: "Yes," before adding with a smile: "If they'd let me alone, I'd probably still be there now and I wouldn't be having to chat to you."
Press Association Sport reports the Black Cats have identified Sam Allardyce as the leading candidate for the vacancy.
Burnley's Sean Dyche, who has publicly distanced himself from the opening at the Stadium of Light, is also held in high regard by the hierarchy on Wearside.
David Moyes and Nigel Pearson -- the latter available after leaving Leicester -- are reportedly not among the names at the top of Short's list.