Sunderland midfielder Liam Bridcutt has joined Championship side Leeds United for an undisclosed fee. The 27-year-old has returned to Elland Road on a two-year deal after a successful loan spell at the club last season.
Bridcutt made 36 appearances for the Black Cats since joining from Brighton and Hove Albion in 2014. His most memorable game came in the 3-0 win away at St. James' Park in the Tyne Wear Derby match against local rivals Newcastle United. The game saw Bridcutt make his debut for the Black Cats and fans were pleased with his performance.
Heavy criticism
However, the short term after his good performance against the magpies saw Bridcutt become exposed to a lot of criticism from the Sunderland faithful, which may have been warranted. His sense of position, which Is a main attribute for any central defensive midfielder, came under mass scrutiny. Injuries also played a big part in the downfall in his time at Sunderland, playing just 11 league games in his first season at the Stadium of Light.
Championship level player
Last season saw Bridcutt move on loan to Leeds United, playing in over half of the games for the Peacocks. The Scotsman arguably found his level within the Championship and the Leeds faithful appreciated his contribution to what was a tough season under former manager Steve Evans and flamboyant chairman Massimo Cellino.
Black Cats need signings
Although Bridcutt may not have hit the heights on Wearside, his transfer to Leeds now sees the Black Cats with just one fully fit central midfielder in Jack Rodwell. Jan Kirchhoff, Lee Cattermole and Sebastian Larsson are all out injured, and the arrival of last season’s loan star Yann M’vila is still not over the line.
Black Cats boss David Moyes will have to act quickly to bring in new faces, especially in the central midfield position.