Sunderland have announced the signing of defender Tommy Smith, on a deal until the end of the season, subject to international clearance.
The 29-year-old defender, was a free agent after his season in the MLS with Colorado Rapids ended in November but has now joined up with the Black Cats. Smith is an experienced defender who has clocked up over 250 league appearances on English soil, for sides such as Ipswich Town, Colchester United and Brentford.
Speaking on his move to Sunderland, Smith told the club website: “I know a lot about the club – the history and the fan base. I am delighted to be a part of it and hopefully I can help push the team up towards the Championship.
“I’ve heard about the Stadium of Light and the atmosphere that is generated and I am just really excited to step out there for the first time and hopefully success can follow.”
Smith, who is a left footed defender, is believed to be seen as an ideal replacement for injured defender Bailey Wright. The on-loan Bristol City man, having only signed on at the Stadium of Light in January, has been ruled out for up to three months with an ankle injury picked up in Sunderland’s 1-0 win over Oxford earlier this month and could miss the rest of the season.
Phil Parkinson will be hopeful Smith can provide added competition to a defence which has only conceded four goals this calendar year. On signing the 6’2 defender, Parkinson said: “I am delighted with the signing of Tommy Smith. He is a good addition to the squad and will add competition to the back three.”
WHAT A SIGNING
— Jake (@Jake71121606) February 21, 2020
I love this. At 29, he's ideal for the role we needed cover in. Welcome Tommy 🔴⚪🔴⚪
— Gary Morris (@TheDumptruck23) February 21, 2020
Rate this. First New Zealander to ever sign for the club?
— Jimmy Shaw (@JamieShaw7) February 21, 2020
Welcome to our club Tommy. Good luck! 🔴⚪️
— 𝙶𝚎𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚃𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎𝚛 (@guffsafc73) February 21, 2020
Announce promotion
— Matty Cain (@MattyCain2) February 21, 2020
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