Dick Advocaat quits Sunderland after dismal start to season
Dutchman steps down after just eight games as Black Cats sit second-bottom in the English Premier League
Dick Advocaat has stepped down as manager of Sunderland, the English Premier League strugglers announced on Sunday.
Advocaat, 68, was appointed last March and successfully steered Sunderland clear of relegation, but they have made a poor start to the current football campaign and sit second-bottom with three points from eight games.
This is a very special football club, with so many great people, but I feel it is the right time to do this - not for me, but for the club
"I want to thank everyone who has stood behind me," Advocaat said in a statement released by the club.
"This is a very special football club, with so many great people, but I feel it is the right time to do this - not for me, but for the club.
"I have made the decision to go after only eight games as I felt it was important to give everyone time to turn things around - like we did last year.
"I am thankful to the chairman [Ellis Short] for understanding my feelings and I remain on good terms with everyone at the club."
The experienced Dutch coach announced his departure from Sunderland at the end of last season, following a 0-0 draw at Arsenal that secured the club's top-flight status and left him breaking down in tears.