Dick Advocaat has stepped down as head coach of Sunderland, the Premier League strugglers announced on Sunday.

Advocaat, 68, was appointed last March and successfully steered Sunderland clear of relegation, but they have made a poor start to the current campaign and sit second-bottom with three points from eight games.

"I want to thank everyone who has stood behind me," Advocaat said in a statement released by the club.

"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."