By Mark Heys
November 23 2007

Bolton Wanderers have today lost the services of popular First Team coach Ricky Sbragia with the Scot returning to Premiership rivals Sunderland in a similar capacity under his ex-Manchester United collegue Roy Keane. .

The 51-year old joined the Bolton backroom staff from United in October 2005 and last season took many post match interviews due to former manager Sam Allardyce being in dispute with BBC television.

Sbragia was given less responsibility by Sammy Lee at the start of this season and new manager Gary Megson has since brought in his own staff with the appointment of Wolves Academy Director Chris Evans last week.

It is not the first time that Sbragia has worked at Sunderland. He was part of Peter Reid's successful coaching staff between 1994 and 2002 prior to taking up a role with Sir Alex Ferguson at United.

Prior to leaving the club Sbragia paid tribute to everyone connected with the Wanderers and wished them well for the future and that is sure to be something that will be recipricated towards one of the most popular members of staff at the Reebok.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. The club's got great staff, players and fans and I wish them all the best - except when they're playing Sunderland!" said the ex-York City favourite

WALKING DOWN THE MANNY ROAD WOULD LIKE TO WISH RICKY WELL IN HIS NEW ROLE WITH THE BLACK CATS.