Turner '˜flattered' by Sunderland link, focused on Chesterfield

Hartlepool United vs Chesterfield - Chris Turner - Pic By James Williamson

Chesterfield CEO Chris Turner admits he's flattered by reports linking him to the vacant chief executive role at Sunderland.

But the 57-year-old, who made more than 200 appearances for Sunderland as a goalkeeper, insists he’s concentrating on life at the Proact.

Responding to last night’s report from the Sunderland Echo, Turner said: “I enjoyed my time as a player at Sunderland and it is flattering to be linked with a Premier League club, but I am focused on my job with Chesterfield.”

The resignation of Sunderland CEO Margaret Byrne, who quit her post in the wake of the Adam Johnson scandal, has led to speculation that Turner is one of the ‘interested’ parties.

It is not believed that Turner has spoken to the Premier League outfit about the position.