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

Connor Wickham admits that he felt 'relieved' when Dick Advocaat decided to make a U-turn and sign a permanent deal as Sunderland manager.

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.

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