Neil McCann backs Dick Advocaat to save Sunderland

Former Rangers winger Neil McCann has backed Dick Advocaat to keep Sunderland in the Premier League.

Advocaat has been appointed manager at the Stadium of Light until the end of the season following the sacking of Gus Poyet.

McCann, who worked under the veteran Dutchman at Ibrox Stadium, believes that he is the right man to guide the club to the end of the campaign and possibly beyond.

"I think he can definitely keep them up this season," the Scot told Sky Sports News. "He is one of those coaches who is always thinking and always trying to get the better of the opposition.

"If he does keep them up then why wouldn't the Sunderland fans want someone like that at the head of their team?

"He will then be able to go and reinforce the squad in the summer, buy in players. We have seen the impact that Ronald Koeman has had at Southampton. I am not saying that Dutch is best, by no means, but they play a style of football that is attractive and Dick Advocaat has proved in the past that he can be successful."

Advocaat will take charge of Sunderland for the first time on Saturday when they make the trip to West Ham United in the Premier League.