London, Oct 4: English football club Sunderland on Sunday announced that head coach Dick Advocaat has resigned, owing to a poor start in the Premier League. "The Dutchman informed chairman Ellis Short of his decision to step down from his role and departs the Stadium of Light with immediate effect," Sunderland said in a stadium.
Sunderland lie 19th in the EPL standings after collecting three points from eight matches. They have lost three matches and are yet to taste a win.
"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," Advocaat said in the statement.
I have made the decision to go after only eight games as I felt it was important to give everyone time turn things around -- like we did last year. I am thankful to the chairman for understanding my feelings and I remain on good terms with everyone at the club," the 68-year-old added. IANS