Dick Advocaat has heaped praise on his Sunderland team after they managed to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The former Netherlands coach took over after the sacking of Gus Poyet with the Black Cats one point above the relegation zone.

"The way we played [in today's 3-1 defeat to Chelsea], free of thinking about going down, was really good in some parts," Advocaat told BBC Sport. "We gave cheap goals but they deserved it.

"I will give that answer on my future next week. The players have responded excellently, with their commitment to the club, to get 12 points makes me very proud of them.

"My assistant said to me we made the impossible possible. I have a big decision to make this week."

Sunderland ended the season in 16th place, three points outside of the relegation zone.