The Dutchman, who previously enjoyed successful spells managing in Holland and Scotland, was formally announced as Gus Poyet's successor this morning.
Advocaat has been appointed as the Black Cats' head coach until the end of the season and has been tasked with trying to keep the Premier League strugglers up.
Speaking about his appointment, Advocaat said: "Sunderland is a big club and I am very much looking forward to the challenge ahead.
"We must now concentrate on Saturday as a priority and I can't wait to get started."
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Dick Advocaat is the new Sunderland manager
Sunderland is a big club and I am very much looking forward to the challenge ahead
Dick Advocaat
Advocaat, who was the bookies' favourite for the job, clearly impressed Sunderland chairman Ellis Short.
He said: "Dick has an incredible CV and vast experience of managing at the very highest level.
"We have one aim only now - to climb the table and everyone is fully focused on the task ahead of us."
Advocaat takes over a Sunderland side, who lie in 17th spot in the Premier League standings, just a point above the relegation zone.
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