Black Cats sign United defender

Sunderland have signed defender Phil Bardsley from Manchester United on a three-and-a-half-year contract.

The right-back, who recently completed a loan spell at Sheffield United, has joined in a deal worth up to £2m.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane, who has also signed United’s Jonny Evans on loan until the end of the season, said: “We needed to strengthen our defence and Phil is a good addition to the squad.”

Bardsley added on the club’s website, safc.com: “Sunderland have a fantastic manager who has given me the chance to come here and play.

“I’m delighted, it’s a massive club and a good opportunity.”