Winless Dick walks away

Dick Advocaat has become the first Premier League manager to leave his job- beating Brendan Rodgers by a couple of hours.

Yesterday’s 2-2 draw with Sunderland proved to be the Dutchman’s final match in charge- quitting the club without a win in eight league matches that leaves the club in bottom place alongside Newcastle with three points.

Advocaat took charge of Sunderland on a caretaker basis towards the end of last season but decided to stay on for another season after initially quitting after avoiding relegation.

In a club statement earlier today the former Rangers (IL) manager said: “I want to thank everyone who has stood behind me. 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.

“I wish Ellis, Lee, all of the staff, players and of course the supporters, who made me feel so welcome here, the very best of luck for the rest of the season. I have some wonderful memories to take with me and I hope I will return to see everybody again in the future.”

After signing his new contract in the summer he said: “After a lot of discussions with Ellis (Short) and Lee (Congerton), they convinced me that I am the right man for the club.

“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 added: “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.

“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.”

Just after 6.30pm Liverpool announced that Rodgers had left the club.