Dick Advocaat signs deal to remain Sunderland manager after shock retirement U-turn

Sunderland have confirmed the permanent appointment of Dick Advocaat after the 67 year old postponed his retirement to sign a one-year deal with the north east club.

The Dutch coach replaced Gus Poyet on a short-term deal in March and won three of the club's nine remaining Premier League games to maintain their top flight status.

Advocaat had intended to retire from management at the end of the campaign, but Sunderland chairman Ellis Short and sporting director Lee Congerton have convinced the ex-Netherlands and Rangers boss to remain with the side.

"After a lot of discussions with Ellis and Lee, they convinced me that I am the right man for the club," he told the club's official website.

"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 my family, we all agree it is the right decision."

The Black Cats took 12 points from Advocaat's nine matches at the helm to finish three points above the relegation zone and escape the drop with a game to spare.

Amid speculation regarding his future at the Stadium of Light, Advocaat had claimed his wife would divorce him should he take the Sunderland job full-time, but after being made the number one candidate he has decided to extend his association with the game into a 50th year.

"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," Short said of Advocaat.

"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."

Turning 68 in September, Advocaat becomes the oldest permanent manager currently in the Premier League, ahead of Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.