Michael Beale wanted an extended break following his Rangers departure and had misgivings about the Sunderland job, but was sold on the vision from the club hierarchy, according to The Athletic.
Beale lasted just over two months at Sunderland and was sacked on Monday following a poor run of results.
He was not a popular appointment as many fans felt that Tony Mowbray did not deserve to get sacked and his work at Rangers never inspired confidence.
However, Beale himself had misgivings about taking up the job when he held talks with the Sunderland board.
The Englishman wanted to spend some more time away from football following his draining experience in management at Rangers.
He was keen on an extended break but talks with Sunderland progressed well and he was sold on the vision of the club hierarchy.
Beale felt that he was aligned with the club’s vision and was happy to take up the role at the Stadium of Light.
However, things did not go according to plan, but he also felt that he could have received more support in the January transfer window.
