Thursday 4 June 2015 21:54, UK
Dick Advocaat has performed a U-turn and signed a one-year contract as head coach at Sunderland.
The 67-year-old Dutchman left the Premier League club at the end of the season after stating he no longer wanted to continue his career in club management.
Many of the players expressed their regret at Advocaat’s departure after he helped to steer the team to top-flight safety with a game to spare having taken over from the sacked Gus Poyet in March.
He was offered a three-year contract to remain at the Stadium of Light but, after opting not to accept it last month, signed a 12-month deal on Thursday instead
Advocaat said: “After a lot of discussions with Ellis (Short) and Lee (Congerton), they convinced me that I am the right man for the club.
“It was a great feeling to be part of Sunderland in the last few months, 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.”
Chairman Short said: “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 club’s sporting director, Congerton, added: “Dick was always our number one choice and we were determined we weren’t going to take 'no' for an answer. I have been in constant contact with him over the last two weeks and I'm absolutely delighted that he has agreed to return.
He lifted everybody at the club - players, staff and fans
“In just a short space of time he has bought into the club wholeheartedly and understands exactly what we need now in order to move forward. We have a lot of work to do to prepare for the season ahead and that starts in earnest now.”
Club captain John O'Shea, currently on international duty with the Republic of Ireland, told the club website: "The boss came in last season and lifted everybody at the club - players, staff and fans.
"He knows the club, what is needed and how we can push onto the next level. The fans love him too, so I'm sure it will be a season that we can all look forward to.
"We all know there is a lot of work to be done over the summer and with new faces added during pre-season, we can all push on together. This is a positive time for everybody associated with SAFC."
