Michael Beale has broken his silence following his departure from Sunderland. The former Black Cats head coach lasted just 63 days in his position before leaving the club after back-to-back defeats to Huddersfield Town and Birmingham City.

The former Rangers boss has high praise for the group of players he leaves behind, stating they were excellent to work with and will continue to follow their progress in the coming weeks and months.

Beale thanks supporters for the support shown to him and his family in the win over Plymouth Argyle. Black Cats supporters arranged a minutes applause in the fourth minute to recognise the battle Michael's young niece Poppy was going through, following her recent leukaemia diagnosis. 

"I am disappointed to have left Sunderland AFC after a short time at the club," Beale told the League Manager's Association. "I would like to say a big thank you to the players who were excellent to work with. The squad has a lot of potential and I will follow their progress with great interest in the coming weeks and months.

READ MORE: Sunderland's Michael Beale experiment comes crashing down
 
"I would also like to extend my thanks to all the staff, both at the training ground and Stadium of Light, for the quality of their work, as well as their friendship. The communication with Kyril, Kristjaan and the board was always open and honest, and I would like to place on record my sincerest thanks for their support during a tough period personally.
 
"To the fans - I would like to thank you for the support shown to me and my family during the recent game against Plymouth Argyle. In this gesture, you showed huge empathy and warmth and that is something I will never forget. I wish everyone associated with Sunderland AFC all the very best for the future."

Mike Dodds will take charge of first-team proceedings until the end of the season, starting with this weekend's clash with Swansea City.