The club have confirmed they have signed Jeff Whitley and announced that they expect central defender Gary Breen to complete a move by tomorrow
Whitley has signed an 11-month contract with the Black Cats (effective from 4 August 2003) while Gary Breen will undergo a medical later today.
Mick McCarthy said “ I’ve been looking for a centre back and Gary is a vastly experienced defender, who I’m sure will do well for us. I don’t anticipate that there will be any problems with the medical and expect he’ll sign a 2 year contract later today or tomorrow.”
Whitley will get the number 8 shirt.
McCarthy said: “ Jeff is a good player who I’m sure will do well for us. I’ve made no secret of my desire to sign him and I’m glad it’s all gone through”.
Jeff Whitley commented: “ I’m glad to get things sorted. I’ve been training with Sunderland for a while now and knew this was the club I wanted to sign for.
“ I’ve had to be patient but I’ve had regular chats with the manager and it’s great that it’s all paid off. I’m delighted to officially be a Sunderland player and I’m looking forward to the new season.”
PLAYER PROFILES
Name: Jeff Whitley
Date of Birth: 28 – 1 – 1979
Place of Birth: Zambia
Height: 5ft 7
Weight: 10st 12
Midfielder
Career
Manchester City since schoolboy and featured in the Man City squad who travelled to the Stadium of Light for the first ever competitive match.
Name: Gary Breen
Date of Birth: 12-12-1973
Place of Birth: Hendon, London
Height: 6ft 1
Weight: 12st
Defender
Career
1992 – 1994 Gillingham
1994 – 1996 Peterborough
1996 -1997 Birmingham
1997 – 2002 Coventry
2002 – 2003 West Ham