"Stickman" signs

The club have confirmed the signing of Michael Bridges from Bolton Wanderers, with immediate effect. The 26-year-old has signed an initial three-month loan deal, with a view to making the move permanent.

The player should be eligible for selection as Sunderland take on one of his former clubs, Leeds tomorrow night, as loan signings can be registered up until 3-hours before kick off.

Discussions have already taken place about making the move permanent; this is likely to take the form of a contract until the end of the season (June 2005), with an option to extend for a further year.

Commenting on the completion of the deal, Manager Mick McCarthy said: “Michael is a player who is proven at the top level. This move gives him a chance to play football and I’m delighted he has joined us.”

Michael added: “I’m excited to be back, it’s amazing how things work out in football. The fact that I started my career here and had such a good rapport with the fans were two of the reasons for me coming back. Mick has a good squad of players here and it’s my aim to get back into the Premiership.”