Leaving Liverpool was an easy decision says Sunderland defender Sebastian Coates

Sunderland defender Sebastian Coates says it was an 'east decision' to leave Liverpool for the Stadium of Light this summer.

Coates, 24, initially played a peripheral role after joining the Black Cats on loan last season, but flourished under the management of Dick Advocaat as the Dutchman guided the club to Premier League safety.

After deciding to extend his own stay at the club, Advocaat brought the Uruguayan defender in on a permanent basis. While Coates was initially determined to fight for a return place at Anfield, Sunderland's reversal in fortunes helped convince him to return to Wearside.

"When I first came here last year, I just did it to play games and recover from my injuries," Coates told the Chronicle report. "I did not think about making it permanent. For me, it was a tough season but playing in the last six games was great.

"It was an easy decision to come back because I know the manager, my team-mates, the club and the supporters. It was really easy.

"The last month of the season changed everything but that is football. It was a great month for me and of course that was the best bit of the season for me."

Coates, who made just 24 appearances for Liverpool since joining the club in 2011, briefly returned to Merseyside following the conclusion of the 2014-15 season, but could not turn down the opportunity of regular first-team football.

"It was not certain I would leave Liverpool this summer, but I always thought I would have to speak with the club and see what the situation was," he continued.

"I knew it was a great opportunity to come to Sunderland and play regularly in the Premier League. That is why I am here.

"You have to take those chances and I hope have the opportunity to play regularly."