Sunderland task excites Dick Advocaat

Dick Advocaat is looking forward to the challenge that lies await at Sunderland after agreeing a short-term deal to become the embattled club’s head coach.

Last weekend’s embarrassing 4-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Aston Villa proved the catalyst to Gus Poyet’s demise, with the north-east outfit bringing his 17-month reign to an end on Monday.

The Black Cats have wasted little time in naming a replacement, with the vastly-experienced Advocaat announced as successor within 24 hours.