SUNDERLAND have confirmed Dick Advocaat's surprise return to the club as head coach on a one-year deal.

Despite previously announcing that he would walk away from Wearside at the end of last season, Advocaat has penned a new contract that will keep him at the Stadium of Light for next season.

“After a lot of discussions with Ellis (Short) and Lee (Congerton), they convinced me that I am the right man for the club," said the 67-year-old.

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

Sunderland owner Short has never hidden his admiration for Advocaat, and in the wake of the goalless draw at Arsenal that secured the club's top-flight status, the American spelled out his determination to retain the Dutch head coach for at least another 12 months.

“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," said Short.

"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."

Advocaat's initial insistence that his personal situation prevented him from remaining in club management was regarded as a serious blow, and forced the Black Cats hierarchy to look elsewhere for a head coach.

The likes of Paul Clement, Sean Dyche and Bernd Schuster were all considered, but Congerton remained in close contact with Advocaat, with the pair's discussions resulting in today's surprise news.

"Dick was always our number one choice and we were determined we weren’t going to take 'no' for an answer," said the sporting director. "I have been in constant contact with him over the last two weeks and I'm absolutely delighted that he has agreed to return.

"In just a short space of time he has bought into the club wholeheartedly and understands exactly what we need now in order to move forward. We have a lot of work to do to prepare for the season ahead and that starts in earnest now."