Connor Wickham 'relieved' by Dick Advocaat return as Sunderland head coach

Connor Wickham has admitted that he felt 'relieved' when Dick Advocaat returned to Sunderland as head coach in June.

The Dutchman initially walked away from a permanent deal after joining the Black Cats on a temporary basis in March.

The 67-year-old announced his intention to retire, but he later made a U-turn, much to the delight of Wickham.

"I was surprised when he said he wasn't going to stay on," Wickham told BBC Radio Newcastle. "When he came back it was a sigh of relief for me almost. I was thinking 'not another manager' but it's good for me, good for the lads.

"Hopefully he can get a grip and push us up and keep us afloat this season."

Sunderland began their pre-season campaign with a 4-2 triumph over Darlington on Thursday night.