Dick Advocaat hopes for up to four more signings

Dick Advocaat has revealed he wants up to four more summer signings as he attempts to rebuild his Sunderland team.

The 67-year-old Dutchman agreed to return to the Stadium of Light as head coach last month after initially rejecting the opportunity to reprise his nine-game cameo at the end of last season, during which he guided the club away from relegation trouble and ultimately preserved their Barclays Premier League status.

Chairman Ellis Short promised to fund a summer rebuilding programme in the wake of the Black Cats’ recent struggles, and sporting director Lee Congerton has already secured the services of Liverpool central defender Sebastian Coates and Celtic full-back Adam Matthews, as well as tying up key midfielder Lee Cattermole on a five-year contract extension.