Sunderland chief Lee Congerton utilised his extensive contacts list to land new manager Dick Advocaat.

The former Rangers boss was recommended to Congerton by ex-Chelsea and Tottenham football chief Frank Arnesen.

Congerton also sounded out former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti for recommendations after the decision was made to sack Gus Poyet.

Advocaat has signed with the Black Cats to the end of the season.