Sunderland sign midfielder

Mick McCarthy is on the brink of signing Frenchman Christian Basilla on a free transfer.

The 27 year old had a trial with the Lads at the end of July and returned to train with them last week. He’s a midfielder who can also play in defence, and could provide useful cover during the absence of Stephen Wright, who suffered knee ligament damage in training recently.

Basilla joined Racing Club Strasbourg in the summer of 2001 after spells for Lyon and Rennes. He’s also previously been on a year’s loan to West Ham, but made only three appearances.

Pen Pic – Christian Basilla

Christian Basilla
Age – 27
DoB – 5 October 1977
Place of Birth – Paris
Height – 6ft 4ins
Weight – 86kg

Past clubs
96-97: 1 match (Lyon)
97-98: 21 matches, 1 goal (Lyon)
98-99: 22 matches, 1 match (Lyon)
99-00: 23 matches, 1 goal (Lyon)
00-01 (Dec): 1 match (Rennes)
Jan-June 01: 3 matches (West Ham)
01-02: 32 matches, 3 goals (Strasbourg, L2)
02-03: 31 matches, 3 goals (Strasbourg)
03-04: 34 matches, 4 goals (Strasbourg)
04-05: 23 matches (Strasbourg)

(Stats and pic courtesy of RC Strasbourg)