Richardson seals Black Cats switch for undisclosed fee

ENGLAND midfielder Kieran Richardson has completed his move from Manchester United to Sunderland for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old signed a four-year deal with the Wearsiders after successfully coming through a medical yesterday morning.

He could now make his Black Cats debut in tomorrow’s friendly with Darlington.

Sunderland manager Roy Keane played alongside Richardson during his new acquisition’s five years at Old Trafford.

He told the club’s website www.safc.com: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to bring Kieran to Sunderland.

“Having worked with him in the past I’m well aware of what a good player and a good lad he is. He’s ready for a fresh challenge and hopefully Sunderland will provide that for him.”

Richardson spent 2004-05 on loan at West Brom and was instrumental in Albion’s last-gasp escape from top-flight relegation.

Then manager Bryan Robson was keen to retain his services but he opted to stay at Old Trafford, where he failed to play more than a peripheral role over the next two seasons.

That did not stop him earning an England call-up in May 2005 and he scored a brace on his debut against the USA. He has amassed eight caps since.

Richardson added: “It’s an exciting move for me.

“I know all about Roy Keane and I’m looking forward to playing for his team. Sunderland is a big club and it’s a great move for me.”

The midfielder is Keane’s fourth signing this summer after Greg Halford, Russell Anderson and Michael Chopra.