Friday, July 8, 2011

Sunderland complete O'Shea signing


Sunderland have completed the signing of Manchester United and Ireland defender John O'Shea.

O'Shea, 30, has signed a four-year deal at the Stadium of Light after the clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.

Manager Steve Bruce said: "O'Shea's wealth of experience and versatility will be great attributes for us."

The Black Cats had a joint bid for O'Shea, Brown and midfielder Darron Gibson accepted last month, but the move for Gibson seems to have slowed with Stoke entering the race to sign the Derry born Ireland international.

Brown, 31, and O'Shea will add experience to a Sunderland defence that was badly affected by injuries last season.

Bruce added: "John has been a solid, consistent part of Manchester United's squad for well over a decade which goes to show the fantastic pedigree of player we have signed.

"He is a wonderful professional both on and off the field.

"I'm delighted with the players we've been able to secure ahead of the new season."

O'Shea, who has only ever played for United in his career, added: "Once I'd heard reports about the club and the people here, the ambitions and what the manager was all about, this was the only place I was going to come to."