Former Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn has stepped down from his role as director of international development, the club have confirmed.

Quinn: Leaving the Stadium of Light

The former Republic of Ireland international, who as chairman put together the Drumaville consortium which backed the Black Cats return to the Premier League, and then persuaded American tycoon Ellis Short to take over, has announced he is leaving the club after six years to concentrate on his family and business interests.

Quinn said: "I have had the most amazing six years and it gives me a huge sense of pride to see where Sunderland is today."