Chris Coleman has described Sunderland as a club "floating aimlessly in the dark".
The Black Cats have suffered successive relegations and Coleman, who took over as manager in November, admits he can offer no guarantees that things will get better.
The former Wales boss has yet to even speak to the club's owner Ellis Short since his appointment and is uncertain whether he will remain in charge next season in League One.
American billionaire Short has is trying to sell the club, but has yet to find a buyer.
"The sooner we know who it is is going to be here, then we can get on with things and move forward," said Coleman.