Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has spoken glowingly of manager Dick Advocaat.

The Dutchman opted to sign a one-year deal with the Black Cats at the start of the month after initially turning down a contract offer from the Wearside club.

Advocaat's decision was met with joy from many involved at the Stadium of Light after he guided the team to survival last term and Defoe was one of those joining the chorus of the former PSV Eindhoven, Rangers and Zenit Saint Petersburg boss.

"He just said from day one that all he wants is for the players to be sharp every day in training, apply yourselves and do the same in the game," Defoe told Sky Sports News HQ.

"If you don't want to do that in training, then you won't play, it's as simple as that. He doesn't care who you are. "When a new manager comes in, it keeps you on your toes and with someone like Dick, who has been in the game so many years, you respect someone like that."