Sunday 28 June 2015 17:38, UK
Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe is delighted Dick Advocaat will be in charge again next season and has set himself a 20-goal target for the campaign.
Defoe, who signed for Sunderland in January from Toronto FC, scored four goals to help the Black Cats avoid relegation and the former Tottenham man believes Advocaat's decision to return next term is vital.
The 67-year-old Dutchman originally left the club at the end of the season after stating he no longer wanted to continue his career in club management only to perform a U-turn and sign a one-year deal.
"He just said from day one that all he wants is for the players to be sharp every day in training, apply yourselves and do the same in the game," Defoe told Sky Sports News HQ.
"If you don't want to do that in training, then you won't play, it's as simple as that. He doesn't care who you are.
"When a new manager comes in, it keeps you on your toes and with someone like Dick, who has been in the game so many years, you respect someone like that."
Defoe admits he is already itching to return to action.
"During the off-season I always keep myself fit. I try not to eat too much and get the rest - the season is so long - but after a couple of weeks I'm ready to go back, ready to train.
"Hopefully we'll have a good pre-season and we can start the season really strong. People say you should always aim for 20 goals in a season and if I'm scoring goals it's only good for the club and the team."
