Reid was dismissed on Monday after seven seasons in charge at the Stadium of Light.

And player-coach Quinn, who has stayed on despite the rest of Sunderland's coaching staff being sacked, says the players let Reid down.

"Deep down we know we are the ones responsible," he said.

"The whole club is devastated. We're feeling very sombre at the moment.

"Peter Reid was a very important part of our lives. He has been very good for my career.

"He's given us careers, given us the opportunity to keep this club up where it belongs. We've let him down."

Quinn said: "It won't take long for the most ardent fans to admit Peter Reid was a fantastic manager of this football club."

The Republic of Ireland international also suggested he would not be taking over the vacant manager's seat at the Stadium of Light.

Quinn said a new boss would be in place before Sunderland's next Premiership match, against West Ham on 19 October.

"There is going to be a new era at the football club," he said.

"I understand we will have a new manager before the West Ham game."

Quinn is charged with taking over the manager's duties before a new man comes in.

"We are getting everyone mentally toned up for when the new regime takes over," he said.

"We've just been charged with making sure they are as right as possible.

"Peter Reid, with the dignity he showed, will want players to do their best for the club."