Sunderland chairman Elli Short has heaped praise on departing manager Dick Advocaat.

The Dutch tactician informed the club on Wednesday that he had turned down the Black Cats' offer of a three-year contract, prompting words of admiration from Short, after he guided the club to Premier League survival this season.

"Although I am extremely disappointed, I understand and absolutely respect his decision," Short told the club's official website.

"In his brief time here he made a real impact and lifted the club with his experience and enthusiasm. We will always be grateful to him for what he achieved."

Advocaat, who took over from Gus Poyet in March, has opted to step aside from management altogether.