Dick Advocaat resigned as Sunderland manager on Sunday, the club confirmed.
The Dutchman, who had masterminded Sunderland’s great escape last season, steps down with immediate effect, with the club second-bottom in the Premier League and without a win this season.
“I want to thank everyone who has stood behind me,’’ Advocaat said in a statement.
“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 turn things around – like we did last year.’’