Dick Advocaat performs shock U-turn and accepts Sunderland job

The Dutchman initially turned down the offer of a two-year contract from Sunderland after impressing during a two-month caretaker spell at the end of the season.

Joining the club when they were just one point above the relegation zone with a tricky set of fixtures to come, Advocaat led them to survival with a game to spare.

But he never seemed likely to stay long term - a point he made in a statement on the Sunderland website last week:

"At certain moments in your life you have to make a decision and I am almost 68 years old now. A number of clubs contacted me but the decision was always Sunderland or nobody," Advocaat said.

"We gave everything in our time there and achieved what we set out to. Sunderland has been one of the highlights of my career."

However, after persistent requests from Sunderland chairman Ellis Short, Advocaat has been tempted back.

“It was a great feeling to be part of Sunderland in the last few months," said Advocaat.

"The experience was something very special and after talking with Lee, Ellis and of course my family, we all agree it is the right decision.”

Predictably Ellis Short echoed that positive message, saying: "Dick’s credentials in football are top class and we saw what an impact his vast knowledge and experience had on our team and the club as a whole in just two months.

"Sunderland fans took him to their hearts and so did everyone at the club, so we are absolutely thrilled that he will be here longer term.”

The focus now will be on revamping the squad so they can avoid another relegation battle which goes into the final week of the season.