Kavanagh leaves Sunderland

Midfielder Graham Kavanagh has left Sunderland by mutual consent.

The 35-year-old, one of six men to sign for Roy Keane on the final day of the summer transfer window in August 2006, has agreed to end his contract after spending two months on loan at League One Carlisle.

Republic of Ireland international Kavanagh, whose deal was due to expire at the end of the season, made only 15 appearances for the Black Cats after being hampered by a knee injury.

He said: “I’m gutted that, due to my knee injury, I didn’t get to play more games for the club.

“I’ll be moving on to pastures new, but I’d like to thank everyone at the club, especially the fans for their fantastic support during my time here.”