Curbs, who left West ham three months ago, want to boss Sunderland, who is without a manager after Roy Keane left the club on Thursday.
He told the Sun: “I’ve been a Premiership manager for the past 10 years and want to stay working in the Premiership.
“People think boring, mid-table Alan Curbishley’s teams finish 10th and seem to look down their noses at that.
“But looking at the table one or two clubs would be grateful of that position.”
Curbishley admitted: “I think Niall will take his time in making the right appointment.
“When Sunderland appointed Roy they were fourth from bottom of the Championship and the only way was up.
“Now whoever takes over faces the reality of the Premiership.”
