UPDATE 1-Soccer-Sbragia stands down as Sunderland manager

* Sbragia stands down after keeping Sunderland up

* Chairman Quinn offers him "job for life" (updating with job offer, quotes, adds byline)

By Mike Collett

LONDON, May 24 (Reuters) - Ricky Sbragia stood down as Sunderland manager on Sunday after his side narrowly escaped relegation on the final day of the Premier League season.

He was immediately praised by chairman Niall Quinn for keeping the club in the top tier of English soccer.

Quinn told BBC Radio Five Live: "We are elated here today. Ricky stood up when I needed him. The players were in a bad way and were in the bottom three when he took over.

"He has been absolutely superb, was given one task to keep Sunderland in the Premier League and he has achieved it.

"He should be toasted tonight and has given this club a lifeline. He has agreed to work behind the scenes with me and kick this club on. He has got a job for life at this club."

Sbragia, a former Manchester United reserve team coach, took over after Roy Keane resigned in December and confirmed his decision to stand down to media following a 3-2 defeat at home to Chelsea which ultimately did not prove too costly.