SUNDERLAND, England -- Dutch coach Dick Advocaat has rejected the chance to become the permanent manager of Sunderland after securing the club's Premier League status.
Sunderland says the 67-year-old Advocaat informed the club of his decision on Wednesday because ''he no longer wished to continue a career in club management.''
Advocaat said ''a number of clubs contacted me, but the decision was always Sunderland or nobody.''
Sunderland turned to Advocaat in March to save the team from relegation. He won three and drew three of his nine games in charge, securing survival with a match to spare.
Sunderland chairman Ellis Short says ''although I am extremely disappointed, I understand and absolutely respect his decision. In his brief time here, he made a real impact and lifted the club with his experience and enthusiasm.''
